Appealing finding suggests why refrigeration dampens banana aromas

Bananas are one of the world’s most popular fruits. But how they’re stored prior to reaching grocery shelves can adversely affect their flavor and smell. Now in a study appearing in ACS’ Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, scientists report that cold temperatures suppress the activity of proteins that play a key role in the formation of the banana’s distinct aromas. They say this discovery could lead to enhancements of the fruit’s fragrance and flavor.