> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://smartac-mintlify-f05786c0.mintlify.site/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Bananas

> An overview of bananas.

## What is a banana?

A banana is an elongated, edible fruit produced by several kinds of large herbaceous flowering plants in the genus *Musa*. Bananas are grown in over 135 countries and are one of the most widely consumed fruits in the world.

## Nutrition

A medium banana (about 118 g) contains:

* **Calories:** \~105
* **Carbohydrates:** 27 g
* **Fiber:** 3 g
* **Potassium:** 422 mg
* **Vitamin B6:** 0.4 mg

## Common varieties

* **Cavendish** — the most widely exported variety.
* **Plantain** — starchier, usually cooked before eating.
* **Red banana** — sweeter, with reddish-purple skin.
* **Lady Finger** — smaller and sweeter than the Cavendish.

## Storage tips

* Store at room temperature until ripe.
* Refrigerate once ripe to slow further ripening (the skin may darken, but the fruit stays fresh).
* Freeze peeled bananas for use in smoothies or baking.