Yes, bananas can have worms. Specifically, the larvae of the fruit fly are the most common type of worm found in bananas. These fruit flies lay their eggs on the surface of the fruit, and when the temperature, humidity, and air conditions are just right, the eggs will hatch into larvae, which then feed on the flesh of the banana. The blackening of the bananas is caused by the natural browning process that occurs as bananas ripen, which is due to the production of ethylene by the fruit during ripening. This browning process causes the yellow pigment to break down into brown spots. If the banana skin is damaged, it becomes easier for the larvae to breed inside, potentially leading to greater health risks, including intestinal and wound myiasis in humans.
Bananas are typically harvested when they are around 90% ripe, as any later stage of ripe fruit is usually too hard to chew, making eating difficult, and the fruit tends to be mealy and not as sweet. However, some people choose to eat unripe bananas because the texture and flavor are better before it fully ripens.
