The new GOST specifies that the length of large bananas must be at least 14 centimeters. It is recommended to use a ruler, tape measure, or caliper for measurement. However, such requirements are not provided for dwarf and small-fruited varieties. Additionally, there must be at least three bananas in a bunch, with only one orphan fruit allowed.
An interesting aspect of the new regulation concerns the smell. If the banana is still green, it should have a fresh cucumber aroma at the cut. Experts note that this is a sign of an unripe fruit. Later, after the "ripening" process, bananas will acquire a sweet taste and yellow color before reaching the stores.
A representative of the Independent Survey and Adjusting Agency (LLC "NASA") explained: "The old standard was only in effect in Russia since 2001. We adapted it for several countries, maintaining the main technical requirements for bananas, but organizing them."
The new standard distinguishes three categories: second grade, first grade, and "extra." The highest grade has the strictest requirements: the fruit length starts from 20 centimeters, and there should be between 4 to 8 pieces in a bunch. Bananas from Ecuador, which meets 95% of the demand by sending about 1.4 million tons to Russia annually, are most commonly found in markets.
Ordinary consumers are unlikely to notice changes after March 1. The new standard is primarily aimed at businesses and will serve wholesalers and suppliers for quality control and documentation purposes.
"The light green color specified in the GOST is a guarantee that the banana will not spoil during transport and will arrive on the shelf in good condition," commented the innovation Leonid Kholod, who previously served as Deputy Minister of Agriculture of the Russian Federation.
