A ripe banana is characterized by its bright yellow skin, which may have a brown or black spot.

The texture is soft, and the flavor is sweet, making it ideal for eating fresh or using in recipes like smoothies and baked goods. Ripeness affects the banana's nutritional profile.

As bananas ripen, their starches convert into sugar, increasing their sweetness and glycemic index.

This makes ripe banana easier to digest and quicker to provide energy. Unripe bananas, which are green or have a greenish tint, are firmer and less sweet, containing more resistant starches that act like fiber.

Overripe bananas, which are more brown than yellow, are very soft and sweet, perfect for baking. Ripe bananas are best when their flavor and texture meet your personal preference.