At Keany Produce we are a reliable source of fresh and high-quality produce. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the nutritional value and myriad benefits of bananas. Bananas are not only delicious but also rich in essential nutrients that support overall well-being. Whether you’re aiming to improve digestive health, boost energy levels, or enhance your mood, bananas are a fantastic addition to any diet.

This article will cover various aspects of bananas, including how to source and select the best ones using our banana ripening chart, learn about our banana storage temperature methods, explore different banana types, discover creative ways to incorporate them into your meals and snacks, and understand their impact on digestive health. Below you’ll find valuable tips and insights that will help you make the most of this versatile fruit.

There are several common banana types, each with its unique characteristics and flavor profile, making them suitable for different culinary uses. Let’s explore the different types of bananas:

1. Cavendish: The Cavendish banana is the most popular and widely available variety. It has a creamy texture and mild flavor, perfect for eating raw or adding to smoothies.

• Bananas, 10 lb
• Bananas, 5 lb
• Bananas Green Tip (5 Color), 40 lb
• Bananas Ripe (6 Color), 40 lb
• Brk/On Turn (3/4 Color) Bananas
• Chef Single Banana, 40 lb
• No Gas/Green Bananas, 40 lb

2. Plantain: Plantains are larger and starchier than regular bananas. They are commonly used in cooking and can be fried, boiled, or baked. Plantains are often used in savory dishes or as a side dish.

• Plantains, 50 lb
• Plantains, 5 lb
• No Gas/Green Plantains, 50 lb
• Plantains Green, 10 lb

3. Lady Finger: Also known as baby bananas, Lady Finger bananas are small and sweet. They have a delicate flavor and are often used in desserts, salads, or as a garnish.

• Baby Bananas, 15 lb
• Petite Bananas, 40 lb

4. Red Banana: With a reddish-purple peel, red bananas have a sweet and creamy taste. They are great for snacking, making smoothies, or adding a pop of color to fruit salads.

• Red Bananas, 20 lb

5. Burro: Burro bananas have a stubby shape and a tangy-sweet flavor. They are ideal for baking, as they hold their shape well and add a rich taste to banana bread or muffins.

Each variety of banana brings its unique qualities to the table, whether it’s the creamy texture of the Cavendish or the sweetness of a plantain. Experiment with different varieties to discover your favorite and enjoy the versatility of this beloved fruit!

At the Keany warehouse, bananas are carefully stored in controlled temperature environments to maintain their ideal ripeness. These temperature-controlled settings are crucial because bananas are sensitive to temperature fluctuations, which can significantly impact their ripening process and the colors of bananas.

By keeping the banana storage temperature within a specific range, between 56°F and 60°F, the ripening process is slowed down, ensuring that the bananas remain firm and fresh for a longer period. This allows the bananas to be shipped and arrive to our customers in optimal condition, ready to ripen fully on the store shelves or in a restaurant. The precise control of temperature in the warehouse is a key factor in delivering consistently high-quality bananas to our customers.

Bananas are not only tasty but also packed with essential nutrients beneficial for overall health. Incorporating bananas into a diet can provide numerous nutritional benefits and contribute to a well-balanced eating plan.

Firstly, bananas are a rich source of several essential vitamins and minerals. They are particularly high in potassium, which is crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels and proper heart function. Additionally, bananas contain vitamin C, which supports a strong immune system, and vitamin B6, which aids in brain development and function.

Furthermore, bananas offer several health benefits. They are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which helps promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation. The natural sugars in bananas provide a quick energy boost, making them an ideal snack for athletes or anyone needing an energy pick-me-up during the day.

Visit Keany Produce’s product catalog to explore our selection of fresh, high-quality bananas that will elevate meals and snacks to a whole new level.

The squash family is divided into two main categories – summer squash and fall squash. While they may seem similar, there are remarkable differences between the two. Let’s delve into the magic of these squashes.

True to its name, summer squash is abundant during the warmer seasons. It encompasses varieties like zucchini, yellow squash, and pattypan squash. These squashes have a tender skin, soft flesh, and mild flavor. Ideal for grilling, sautéing, or even eating raw in salads.

On the other hand, fall squash is harvested later in the year. Varieties such as butternut squash, acorn squash, and spaghetti squash fall into this category. They have a hard outer skin and dense, sweet flesh, making them ideal for roasting, baking, or creating warm soups and stews. Fall squashes can be stored for extended periods, making them a staple in autumn and winter recipes.

Understanding the difference between summer squash types and fall squash types can inspire you to create a range of dishes, from light and refreshing summer salads to hearty autumn meals. Explore our selection of fresh, locally grown summer and fall squashes to add a touch of magic to your squash dishes!

Summer squash comes in a myriad of shapes and sizes. Let’s take a closer look at four popular summer squash types: zucchini, patty pan squash, crookneck squash, and Goldbar Squash.

Zucchini, the most recognized type of summer squash, is typically long and cylindrical, with a dark green skin. Its mild, subtly sweet flavor and tender texture make it a versatile ingredient for sautéing, grilling, or spiralizing into noodles. Zucchini is also a star in many recipes for summer squash.

• Local Zucchini – ½ Bushel
• Fancy Zucchini – ½ Bushel
• Medium Zucchini – ½ Bushel

Recognized by its unique shape, Patty pan squash, or scallop squash, resembles a small flying saucer. Its delicate flavor and firm texture make it a great addition to stir-fries, stews, or as a vessel for delectable fillings. Patty pan squash adds a touch of novelty to any recipe with squash.

• Baby Patty Pan – 5 LB
• Sunburst Squash – 5 LB

Crookneck squash, distinguished by its curved neck and vibrant yellow skin, offers a buttery flavor. Its tender nature lends itself to a variety of dishes, from soups and casseroles to a simple sauté with garlic and herbs. Crookneck squash is an excellent choice for those looking to experiment with recipes for summer squash.

• Local Yellow Squash – ½ Bushel
• Fancy Yellow Squash – ½ Bushel
• Medium Yellow Squash – ½ Bushel

Local Goldbar Squash is primarily available in the summertime from local farmers. Distinguished by a straight neck and smooth, cylindrical shape, Goldar Squash resembles zucchini more than the crookneck squash.

• Local Goldbar Squash – ½ Bushel

At Keany Produce, we take pride in offering a wide range of high-quality summer squash types, all locally sourced and harvested with utmost care for optimal freshness and flavor.

Herbs are pivotal elements in cooking that enhance the flavor profile of a range of dishes. Derived from the leaves, stems, or flowers of plants, herbs are renowned for their savory and aromatic properties.

There is a broad spectrum of herbs, each with its distinctive flavor and culinary uses. Some commonly used herbs include basil, cilantro, dill, lavender, oregano, parsley, rosemary, sage, and thyme. Among these, lavender is known for its soothing aroma, while rosemary and oregano are praised for their robust flavors. Cilantro and chives, on the other hand, lend a fresh and vibrant taste to dishes.

Integrating herbs into your cooking offers a myriad of benefits. They add depth to dishes, enhancing the overall taste. The aromatic oils present in herbs infuse the food with enticing flavors, delivering a remarkable gastronomic experience.

Alongside boosting the flavor, herbs also pack various health benefits. Many herbs are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote overall health. For instance, parsley is loaded with vitamin C, while rosemary boasts antioxidants that aid in combating inflammation.

Furthermore, herbs can act as a healthier substitute for salt or artificial flavorings. By integrating herbs into your cooking, you can cut down your sodium intake while still relishing deliciously seasoned meals.

At Keany Produce, we understand the importance of fresh and superior herbs in cooking. We are dedicated to sourcing the highest quality herbs straight from farmers and local growers, ensuring their quality and flavor. Browse through our selection of herbs and elevate your culinary experience!

Classic herb and food pairings:

• Basil: Perfectly complements tomatoes, mozzarella, and pasta dishes in basil herb recipes.
  • Opal Basil – Pound
  • Basil – Pound
  • Potted Fresh Living Basil – 6 ct

• Thai Basil: pairs well with ingredients like coconut milk, lemongrass, ginger, garlic, and chili peppers; often used in Thai cuisine.
  • Potted Fresh Living Thai Basil – 6 ct
  • Thai Basil – Pound

• Rosemary: Pairs well with roasted meats, potatoes, and root vegetables.
  • Rosemary – Pound
  • Potted Fresh Living Rosemary – 6 ct

• Lavender: Adds a floral touch to desserts, teas, and cocktails.
  • Flowering Lavender – 50 ct
  • Lavender – Pound

• Oregano: Enhances the flavors of pizza, pasta, and Mediterranean dishes.
  • Oregano – Pound
  • Potted Fresh Living Oregano – 6 ct

• Thyme: Its earthy flavor pairs well with the mild taste of chicken, commonly used in roasts, stews, and marinades.
  • Thyme – Pound
  • Lemon Thyme – Pound
  • Potted Fresh Living Thyme – 6 ct

• Mint: In mint herb recipes it’s refreshing flavor cuts through the richness of lamb dishes and pairs well with peas in salads, soups, and side dishes.
  • Mint – Bunch
  • Potted Fresh Living Mint – 6 ct
  • Mint Tops – 4 oz

• Parsley: Adds a fresh and peppery taste that complements the delicate flavor of fish dishes. California Parsley, or curly parsley is commonly used for garnishes and has mild flavor. Italian Parsley, or flat-leaf parsley, is commonly used in Mediterranean cuisines and it preferred for its pronounced flavor and versatility.
  • California Parsley – 60 ct
  • Cello Parsley – 4-1 lbs
  • Potted Fresh Living Parsley – 6 ct
  • Italian Parsley – 60 ct

• Cilantro: Adds a bright, citrusy flavor to dishes like salsa, guacamole, curries, and stir-fries.
  • Cilantro – 30 ct
  • Cello Cilantro – 4-1 lbs
  • Potted Fresh Living Cilantro – 6 ct

• Chives: Works well as a garnish for soups, salads, and baked potatoes, and also in egg dishes.
  • Chives – Pound
  • Yellow Chives – Bunch

• Dill: Often paired with fish, particularly salmon, and used in pickling cucumbers in dill herb recipes.
  • Dill – 24 ct
  • Potted Fresh Living Dill – 6 ct

Knowing all about herbs not only elevates your cooking skills, but also supports your health.

Herbs have been leveraged for centuries not only for their flavor-enhancing abilities but also for their numerous health benefits. Many herbs possess medicinal properties and are known to provide specific health benefits. Incorporating herbs like lavender, rosemary, oregano, cilantro, and chives into a healthy lifestyle can be an easy and effective way to promote overall well-being.

Herbs with medicinal properties:

Certain herbs have been traditionally used for their medicinal attributes. For example, lavender is known for its calming and anti-anxiety properties. Rosemary, on the other hand, is recognized for its antioxidant properties and potential to enhance memory and concentration.

Health benefits of well-known herbs:

Several popular herbs offer specific health benefits. Oregano is often used for its antibacterial properties. Cilantro is rich in antioxidants and may assist in detoxification. Additionally, chives have been linked to heart health and improved digestion.

Ways to incorporate herbs into a healthy lifestyle:

There are several ways to include herbs in your daily routine. Fresh herbs like cilantro, chives, lavender, rosemary, and oregano can be added to salads, soups, and stir-fries to enhance both the flavor and nutritional value of your meals. You can also steep herbs in hot water to make soothing herbal teas or use them to create homemade herb-infused oils and vinegars.

Check out our selection of fresh herbs and elevate your health and culinary game!