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Tag: Overripe fruit

Explore our comprehensive collection of health articles in this category.

Which fruit is alcoholic? The science of natural fermentation

4 min read
Overripe bananas can contain up to 0.5% ethanol, a form of alcohol produced through natural fermentation. All ripe fruits contain some amount of ethanol, created by wild yeasts that interact with the fruit's natural sugars. The concentration of alcohol is typically very low and not intoxicating, but the process can be more pronounced in certain high-sugar varieties.

Can You Eat a Banana with Black Center Syndrome?

4 min read
Food waste statistics show that bananas are a commonly discarded item, often due to cosmetic defects like a black center. However, what many people don't realize is that this discoloration, referred to as black center syndrome, can have several different causes, each with different implications for food safety.

Can overripe bananas make you gassy? Exploring the science

4 min read
While bananas are often praised for their digestive benefits, the truth is more complex. For some individuals, especially those with sensitive digestive systems or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), eating overripe bananas can indeed lead to gas and bloating. This happens due to the changes in a banana's carbohydrate profile as it ripens, which affects how our gut bacteria process the fruit.

Why is there black stuff in the middle of my banana?

5 min read
Over 70% of bananas worldwide are the Cavendish variety, specifically bred to be seedless, but sometimes an alarming black streak appears in the center. This dark discoloration can be confusing, so why is there black stuff in the middle of my banana, and is it still safe to eat?

Is a ripe pomegranate squishy?

4 min read
Contrary to popular belief, a ripe pomegranate is not squishy at all; it is actually quite firm and heavy for its size. A squishy texture is a key indicator that the fruit has gone bad and is likely fermented or rotten.

Can Bananas Be Too Bad to Eat? The Truth About Overripe Fruit

4 min read
While bananas are celebrated for their nutritional benefits, the question of whether they can be 'too bad' to eat is a common one, especially when the fruit develops an increasingly brown or black peel. A spokesperson for the FDA confirms that extremely ripe bananas are likely safe as long as they are not visibly moldy. However, knowing the critical signs of spoilage is essential to avoid potential health risks and unnecessary food waste.

What Happens if I Eat the Black Part of a Banana?

4 min read
Overripe bananas, particularly those with black spots on the peel, contain higher levels of antioxidants than their greener counterparts. Many people wonder about the safety of consuming the black parts of a banana, from the speckled skin to the tiny, dark tip. The answer largely depends on what and where the blackness is, and if there are other signs of decay.