Are Frozen Bananas Healthy? Everything You Need To Know

Yes, frozen bananas are healthy as all the nutrients that include magnesium, potassium, copper, vitamin B6, and vitamin C are retained in the fruit, just like fresh ones, ready for you to eat. In fact, some bananas contain higher levels of antioxidants after being frozen than fresh ones making them healthier.

Just so you know, the lifespan of frozen bananas is short, so you should aim to consume them as soon as possible. Otherwise, they will rot in your freezer, spread an unpleasant smell and most probably taste a bit weird too.

I’m sure you probably have millions of questions racing through your mind about frozen bananas. So yes, keep your eyes glued to what we have in store for you. Because you, my friend, are about to learn the A-Z’s of frozen bananas.

Why Freeze Bananas?

Bad news, banana lovers, because within the next three months, there will be a global supply shortage of fresh bananas, so you better start freezing them!! 

You believed it, didn’t you? I was just pulling your leg!! Don’t worry. The world has enough bananas for many generations ahead, I guess!

Jokes aside, if you have bananas that are about to go bad or if there are too many at home that you just cannot finish, then you can freeze them for future consumption.

And yes, the nutrition values remain the same even if the fruit is stored in the freezer. So you will still get plenty of fiber, iron, and vitamins from frozen bananas that taste sweeter and creamier than fresh ones.

Can You Eat Frozen Bananas?

Yes, you can eat frozen bananas but make sure to defrost them before eating. Frozen bananas can be consumed as a snack, or you can use them for various recipes such as ice cream or pancakes. And they remain just as healthy as fresh ones giving your body all the minerals and nutrients you need.

Although you may be wondering about how a frozen banana may taste, rest assured because the taste is no different from the fresh ones. In fact, those who have a sweet tooth prefer eating frozen bananas because of the increases in sweetness and creaminess of the fruit.

During the thawing process of bananas, the starches in the cells are diffused, leading them to convert into sugar. This, in turn, makes the bananas sweeter in taste.

If you want to make smoothies and milkshakes with frozen bananas, then there is no need to add any sugar as the fruit itself will have high sugar content.

But then again, if you want to eat frozen bananas as a whole, you may have trouble doing so as the fruit loses its firmness during the thawing process.

Are Frozen Bananas Good For You?

Yes, frozen bananas are good for you because they are much easier to digest than fresh ones. The fruit also contains the same nutritional values as fresh ones that include plenty of carbohydrates, iron, fiber, vitamins, and potassium to keep you fit.

Besides that, if your sugar level suddenly drops, just defrost a frozen banana and pop it in your mouth to escalate your levels.

But keep frozen bananas away from those who have restrictions on sweet consumption, such as diabetic patients, as it will be harmful to their health with the increase in the sugar content of the fruit.

Other than that, frozen bananas retain all the nutrition your body needs, just like fresh ones. You can even offer it to your little one but make sure the banana is at room temperature first.

So, people, you can undoubtedly go bananas with sweet frozen bananas!

Can You Eat Frozen Bananas Straight From The Freezer?

No, you absolutely cannot eat frozen bananas straight from the freezer as they need to be defrosted first and brought to room temperature.

These are a few methods I use when it comes to defrosting the bananas after taking them out of the freezer:

• Defrost  the container or sealed bag of bananas by placing them under warm water.

• Keep the container of frozen bananas in the refrigerator overnight or for many hours until defrosted.

• Throw those frozen bananas in the microwave for about 3-4 minutes on low heat and watch them thaw.

How To Properly Freeze Bananas?

When freezing bananas, do ensure that the air-tight container or freezer bag you store it in is appropriately closed; otherwise, they might develop freezer burn.

Have a look at our suggestions on how to freeze bananas properly:

1. Freezing Mashed Bananas 

Step 1: Mash the bananas 

First, take the bananas in a big mixing bowl and then start making them with a fork or masher. Make sure to mash it well, as the texture needs to be creamy and soft.

Step 2: Use A Silicone Tray 

Divide the mashed bananas into small portions and place them onto a silicone or muffin tray, then keep the tray in the freezer for a couple of hours. By doing this, you would not have to take out a whole lot of mashed bananas when needed to make something that only requires a small amount.

Step 3: Store Away The Bananas 

Transfer the small portions of bananas, which by now should have turned hard, into small airtight containers or freezer bags and make sure to seal them properly.

When it comes to defrosting mashed bananas, you can keep them in the fridge overnight or let them sit at room temperature for about 3 hours.

2. Freezing Whole Or Half Bananas 

Step 1: Chop the bananas 

Peel the bananas and chop them up into two halves, or you can even keep them as a whole. Then place them on a tray and freeze for about 2 hours until they are completely hard and frozen.

Step 2: Store away the bananas 

Keep the frozen bananas in freezer bags and remove as much air as you can from the bags. Sliced bananas can be stored for up to 3 months

3. Freezing Sliced Bananas 

Step 1: Slice the bananas 

You can slice the bananas into 1-inch round shapes and then place them on a tray to keep in the freezer for about 2 hours.

Step 2: Store away the bananas 

Take out the banana tray and put the slices in airtight containers or freezer bags, which will remain fresh for up to three months in the freezer.

To give you a heads-up, frozen sliced bananas defrost much faster than whole banana pieces. So if you think you need bananas regularly, then the best way to store them is to slice them up.

How Frozen Bananas Taste Like?

Frozen bananas that are ripe taste almost like ice cream, as that extra sweetness that comes from banana starch is converted into sugar when defrosting. However, frozen overripe bananas may not be appealing as they may smell and also have a sour taste.

How Long Do Frozen Bananas Last?

Well, I would say that frozen bananas last for about 3 months because, after that, the taste changes and it begins to turn brown which looks unpleasant. Although they can be stored for up to 6 months if prepared correctly, it’s better to consume them as quickly as possible.

Bananas are made up of 75℅ water, which changes the texture when the banana is frozen and defrosted. Although this does give the fruit a rich, creamy taste, at times, the crystallization of the water can result in an unappealing texture.

Freezer burn is another problem that can affect the lifespan of frozen bananas. This problem occurs when the bananas are exposed to air and moisture. Yes, we often make the mistake of taking out the whole packet of frozen bananas when we need only a small amount which in turn causes freezer burns.

Freezer-burnt bananas are unsafe to eat as they give out an unpleasant smell and texture. This also applies to bananas that have been kept in the freezer for way too long.

5 Reasons To Eat Frozen Banana 

1. Helps To Fight Anemia 

Bananas contain folic acid that helps to increase hemoglobin levels for those who suffer from anemia. Besides that, frozen bananas will help to improve your immune and nervous systems.

2. Excellent Ingredient For Recipes 

Without any doubt, bananas are one of the core ingredients that can be added to many recipes. You can take out those frozen bananas and toss them inside the blender for a thick creamy smoothie. Or you can add some whipped cream to the mixture to make banana ice cream. 

Nonetheless, there are plenty of other delicious recipes where you can use frozen bananas to give your body all the necessary nutrients.

3. Helps To Relieve Constipation

As frozen bananas contain high levels of starch and carbohydrates, they will help clear your intestinal. This helps to make bowel movements much more accessible for those who are suffering from constipation.

On the other hand, ripe bananas are also beneficial for those who have diarrhea as it helps to reduce stomach cramps and aches in the digestive mucosa.

4. High Amount Of Potassium 

Did you know that bananas help those who suffer from blood pressure? Well, high levels of potassium can reduce high blood pressure and stabilize it.

5. Reduces Acidity 

Bananas contain high levels of alkalinity, which helps to control excessive acidity if consumed on a regular basis. As the fruit helps to get rid of stomach-churning by increasing the production of mucous in the stomach lining.

Are Frozen Bananas Good For Weight Loss? 

No, frozen bananas are not good for weight loss because of the high sugar content that will create a barrier for you to shred those few pounds.

When we consume bananas, the carbohydrates break down into sugar in our bodies, causing our blood sugar levels to escalate and also increase our weight.

Many people say that the high levels of fiber in a single banana will keep your stomach full for a long time, stopping you from eating again soon and assisting in weight reduction.

But on the other end, the carbohydrates and sugar concentration in bananas will have an adverse effect on your body and make you bulky.

Frozen Banana Calories 

Well, as you know, freezing bananas does not affect their nutritional levels compared to fresh ones. The only change that occurs is in the texture of the fruit. When eating a 140g frozen banana, your body will intake 120 calories.

Can You Eat Frozen Bananas As A Snack?

Yes, you can eat frozen bananas as a snack, and it’s healthy, too, as the fruit contains vitamins and fiber and is low in calories.

All you have to do is take out those mild ripe frozen bananas and let them defrost for a few minutes before consumption to allow your body to fuel up with iron and carbohydrates.

Most of all, frozen bananas are convenient to carry with you whether you go, even if it’s an errand to the local corner shop or traveling to the other side of the world. You don’t have to worry about packing the banana in a container. You can just slip it in your bag.

Frozen Banana Benefits

1. Helps with skin problems 

Bananas contain anti-inflammatory properties that help to improve the immune system. Hence if you are suffering from skin problems such as psoriasis, then eating frozen bananas will help to reduce the swelling and pain you are going through.

2. Energy Booster 

Are you planning to hit the gym but need some energy? Well, in that case, take out the frozen banana and blend it with protein powder to give you that extra energy you need to thrive at the gym.

Since frozen bananas contain natural sugar, unlike energy drinks, it’s a far wiser option to consume the fruit to energize yourself without worrying about dealing with a sugar crash as the day progresses.

Usually, I add bananas to make my protein shake, giving me instant energy when I feel knackered halfway through the day. 

3.  Better Heart Health 

Did you know that eating frozen bananas can contribute to improving your cardiac health? The potassium in bananas helps the circulatory system in your body by the delivery of oxygen to your brain. 

The consumption of potassium and magnesium in bananas will help you to maintain normal blood pressure along with a regular heartbeat to stop it from pumping anytime soon.

Fun fact: Those who eat bananas on a regular basis are at a 27%  lower risk of suffering from cardiac arrests or any other heart-related illnesses.

4. Lasts Longer 

It’s obvious that frozen bananas will last longer than fresh ones and also be safe to eat. It is provided that the storing process of the frozen bananas is appropriate and the freezer’s temperature is 0°F.

But ensure that the bananas are frozen when they are ripe. Freezing it then will allow you to enjoy the perfect taste when thawed. But keep in mind that the longer you freeze the fruit, the more quality will degrade more and more. Hence it is best to consume frozen bananas within a maximum of three months.

When storing bananas in the freezer, it’s always better to keep them on a different shelf or drawer away from other foods to prevent the absorption of different smells which could ruin the taste of the frozen bananas.

Now let’s come to the scientific explanation of why frozen bananas last longer. When we freeze bananas, the below-minus temperature in our freezers slows down molecules from moving, causing the microbes to enter a dormant stage. This results in the microorganisms stopping rowing, preventing the bananas from rotting.

5. Bananas Make You Full 

Although frozen bananas contain fewer calories than other fruits, it still gives you a satisfied feeling and fills up your tummy when eating.

Bananas contain fiber and starch that help to make them heavy and healthy snacks compared to sugary drinks and snacks.

Also, the pectin in bananas helps to produce effects that lead to a decrease in appetite, giving you less desire to fill yourself up with unhealthy junk food.

Frozen Banana Negative Sides 

1. Freezer Burn

If you don’t store the bananas in freezer bags or air-tight containers, then there is a chance that they might develop freezer burn, which will ruin the texture and taste of the bananas.

2. Tooth Decay 

As frozen bananas tend to be sweeter, the fruit’s sugar can easily stick to your teeth and cause tooth decay. To avoid spending a fortune on dental care, you should brush or rinse your mouth thoroughly after consuming bananas.

3. High Sugar Content 

Frozen bananas contain more sugar than fresh ones, which can lead to illnesses if consumed too much.. Hence when using frozen bananas for any recipe, you need to avoid any additional toppings or sweetness.

4. Allergies

As hard as it may sound to believe, there are some people who are allergic to bananas and should avoid consuming frozen ones, no matter how nutritious they are.

5. It Makes You Feel Sleepy

Having trouble falling asleep? Try to eat 2-3 bananas in one go and watch yourself heading off to bed in no time. Since frozen bananas contain carbohydrates, it fills you up and makes you feel lazy and want to sleep.

How To Tell If Frozen Bananas Are Bad?

Frozen bananas that have gone bad will have changed in color, smell, and consistency. And any sour taste or unpleasant smell indicates that they are rotting and should not be eaten.

According to Foods Guy, a number of nutritionists have said that frozen bananas that last up to six months are safe to be eaten within the time frame. 

But the longevity of the frozen bananas depends on how they were stored, whether the bananas were mildly or fully ripe, and, of course, the freezer’s temperature.

Look out for these signs to determine whether the bananas in the freezer have gone bad:

1. Color 

If you have frozen whole bananas with their skin, then the peel will go through a natural change of color and turn brown or black. But that doesn’t mean you can’t eat the banana, as the flesh inside is still probably edible.

When it comes to determining whether a banana has gone bad, you should pay heed to the color of the flesh of the frozen banana. Although after being thawed, the color and texture of frozen bananas will not be the same as fresh ones, as they may be either lighter or darker than re bananas.

But if you find that the flesh of the frozen bananas has turned into a very dark color, most likely it has gone bad, and you should discard it.

2. Smell 

When eating frozen bananas, if you notice that the smell is off and it tastes sour, then it’s most likely that the banana is in the process of going bad and should be thrown away.

Because frozen bananas do not smell any different from fresh ones. In fact, they smell the same and taste even sweeter.

3. Texture 

When bananas are frozen, the water inside the cells of the fruit swells, which causes the cells to burst. As a result, when the banana is defrosted, the water thaws giving the fruit a soft mushy texture.

Hence it doesn’t mean that the frozen bananas have gone bad if they are mushy when defrosted. But if you find that the texture is dry or leathery, then it indicates that the bananas have suffered from freezer burn and need to be thrown away.

Are Frozen Bananas Good When They Turn Brown?

Yes, frozen bananas are good when they turn brown and are safe to eat because color change is a part of the ripening process.

Food molecules in bananas that include enzymes and oxygen cause the enzymes to react, which causes the fruit to ripen and become brown. But don’t worry, as the oxidation process does not affect the mutational values of bananas when they are frozen.

Do Bananas Lose Nutrients When Frozen?

No, bananas do not lose nutrients when frozen. They become sweeter, increasing your sugar intake. Other than that, frozen bananas are just as healthy as fresh bananas and provide you with all the vitamins and minerals you need.

Can Frozen Bananas Make You Sick?

Yes, frozen bananas can make you sick in many ways. In fact, consuming too many can kill you too. To be on the safe side, it’s better to control your banana intake to a maximum of seven per day. 

If you eat bananas directly from the freezer, then there is a high possibility of you catching a cold or even the flu. As a result, you may end up with swollen tonsils leading to more severe health issues.

From my personal experience, I would have to warn you by telling you not to buy frozen bananas as they have been exposed to temperatures that are high and go bad easily when you keep them in your freezer. 

My whole house reeked of rotten bananas when I purchased frozen ones and stored them in my freezer because they went bad within a month and gave out an unpleasant smell that lasted for days.

Frozen Banana vs Fresh Banana 

Check out the differences between frozen and fresh bananas and determine which of the two are safe and healthier to consume and use for different recipes.

Frozen Banans

Fresh Banana

1. Frozen bananas contain a higher sugar content making it sweeter. 2. Frozen bananas can last up to 6 months before they go bad. 3. Even if the skin of frozen bananas turns black, you can still eat them as the flesh will remain fresh inside. 4. Frozen bananas may be harmful to your health as the cold temperature of the fruit can cause swollen tonsils or the flu. 5. If you have frozen bananas at home, then you can quickly eat it whenever you want, as they remain edible for a few months.

1. Fresh bananas have a naturally sweet taste. 2. Fresh bananas last up to a maximum of 5 days before they need to be thrown out. 3. Fresh bananas that have a black peel are most likely in the process of going bad. 4. Fresh bananas give you a variety of nutrients and minerals your body needs to maintain good health. 5. Fresh bananas go bad within a short time and can’t be kept at home for a long time. Hence you may have to do a quick errand to your nearby supermarket to get hold of bananas if you are absolutely craving for them.

Are Frozen Bananas As Healthy As Fresh?

Yes, frozen bananas are as healthy as fresh because they contain vitamin C, potassium, fiber, carbo, hydrates, and other essential nutrients that help you to maintain good health.

You may think that eating frozen bananas may harm your digestion as they are not fresh. That is not what happens at all, as the nutritional values remain exactly the same, except for the sweetness, which increases during the thawing process.

Do Frozen Bananas Have The Same Nutritional Value?

Yes, frozen bananas have the same nutritional value, which includes several vitamins, iron, magnesium, and many other elements.

The table below shows the nutrition values of both fresh and frozen bananas that weigh around 100gm.

Nutrient	Amount in 100gm banana
Protein	1.1 grams
Calories	89
Fat	0.3 grams
Magnese	0.3 mg
Carbohydrates	23 grams
Magnesium	27 mg
Fiber	2.6 grams
Potassium	358mg
Vitamin B6	0.4 mg
Vitamin C	8.7 mg

Do Frozen Bananas Have More Sugar?

Yes, absolutely frozen bananas have more sugar than fresh bananas. According to researchers, the conversion of starch to sugar with the help of amylase takes place due to the fruit being kept stored.

Amylase is an enzyme in our saliva that aids us when we digest food. As bananas contain a lot of starch so, when we start to chew the fruit, the amylase breaks down the starch into sugar, making it taste sweeter.

Even when we defrost frost-frozen bananas, the starches and the amylase diffuse in the cells, which leads to the conversion of sugar from starches, increasing the sweetness of frozen bananas.

Keep in mind that to o enjoy the sweetness of frozen bananas, you must consume them as soon as possible, preferably within three months; otherwise, the fruit will begin to lose its taste.

FAQs 

How long before a thawed banana turns bad?

You can keep thawed bananas in your fridge for up to seven days before they start to turn sour. But do keep an eye on the color and texture of the bananas. If you think they are not how they should be, then maybe you need to dispose of the fruit sooner.

What is the best method for storing bananas in the freezer?

The best way to store bananas in the freezer is by taking off their skin, cutting them up into slices then putting them inside freezer bags that can be sealed or air-tight containers.

End Note 

What was the question again? Oh yes, are frozen bananas healthy? If you store them correctly and let them thaw properly, then the fruit is good for you on its own, or by adding it to your favorite recipe.

However, the increase in sweetness due to the conversion of starch to sugar may be a problem for those who have diabetes or have toothaches, as the high sugar content may add to tooth decay.

Other than that, if you are a banana lover, then freezing them is recommended for you as it is a healthy snack that you can enjoy whenever you want.

Also Read:

How Many Bananas Will Kill You? [Know The Fact]