What’s the “Right” Way to Peel a Banana?

Turns out, there’s more than one way to peel a banana — and Americans are split on the matter. A recent poll sparked an online debate by asking a surprisingly simple question: Which end do you open a banana from?

For most people, the answer is the stem.

In fact, 72% of respondents said they open bananas from the stem end, which many consider the “normal” method.

But 20% said they go for the other end, what many call the bottom. Another 8% weren’t even sure which way they do it.

Interestingly, age seems to play a role in peel preference. Younger adults are more likely to open bananas from the bottom, with around 24% saying they do so — compared to only 18% of older adults. And here’s where things get even more curious: bottom-peeling is actually how monkeys do it. It may be cleaner and easier, especially when the banana is ripe. Pinching the non-stem end near the seam lets the peel fall away with less struggle and fewer mushy results.

While we’re on the topic of banana etiquette, here’s another debate: is it okay to break apart a bunch of bananas when grocery shopping?

Most people (57%) say yes, pull away! But nearly a third (31%) think it’s bad form, and 12% are unsure. Once again, younger shoppers are more relaxed about it than older generations.

And what about ripeness? When it comes to color, the ideal banana is bright yellow for 54% of people. Another 21% prefer theirs slightly underripe with a hint of green, while 15% like them speckled with brown. Only 4% want their bananas mostly green, and zero percent reported enjoying them fully brown.

Whether you’re a bottom-peeler or a bunch-breaker, one thing’s clear: Americans have opinions about bananas.