Michigan State University Extension
Preserving Food Safely - 01600755
10/13/97
Commercial varieties, always picked unripe, are matured
by special moist processing before reaching the point of
sale. They should not be eaten until further ripening by
holding them at 70 degrees Fahrenheit in a closed paper bag
until yellow in color. Once cut, they darken rapidly unless
sprinkled with citrus juice. As a rule, use slightly
underripe plantains for cooking. Plantains may be
refrigerated, while the skins darken ominously, the
interiors remain palatable even after 2 to 3 days of
refrigeration.