Sustaining freshness: Critical review of physiological and biochemical transformations and storage techniques in postharvest bananas

Bananas, renowned for their nutritional virtues and palatable flavor, confront a formidable preservation challenge that underscores the importance of their postharvest management. This review explores the multifaceted postharvest processes that dictate the quality of bananas, encompassing ethylene production, variations in enzymatic activities, transformation of aroma compounds, and alterations in carotenoid content. It meticulously examines the multitude of factors precipitating quality degradation, including environmental stressors and physiological dynamics, while critically evaluating recent advancements in preservation technologies. Furthermore, this review delineates forward-thinking research trajectories aimed at augmenting the shelf life of bananas, whilst ensuring the retention of their sensory appeal and nutritional value. It advocates for the exploration of cutting-edge preservation strategies, highlighting the promise of nanotechnology, intelligent packaging solutions, and the superiority of biological methodologies over traditional chemical interventions. Through this detailed scrutiny and its strategic recommendations, the review aspires to make a substantial contribution to the ongoing endeavors in elevating banana preservation practices, thus safeguarding their global consumption and enjoyment.