Now the length of large bananas must be at least 14 centimeters, and they are to be measured using a metal ruler, tape measure, or caliper. These requirements do not apply to dwarf and small-fruit varieties. The new rule also pertains to packaging: there must be at least three bananas in a bunch, and only one "single" banana is allowed per hand.
An interesting nuance also concerns aroma: if a banana is still green and has just arrived in a container, its cut should have the smell of fresh cucumber, which is a normal sign of an unripe fruit. Later, after the "ripening" process, bananas will acquire their usual sweet aroma and yellow color.
The situation was commented on by the Independent Survey and Adjustment Agency (LLC "NASA"): "The old standard was only in effect in Russia since 2001. We developed a common document based on this standard for several countries. The technical requirements for bananas remained the same; we simply brought them to a common denominator."
The new GOST specifies three categories: second grade, first grade, and "extra." Strict requirements apply to the highest grade — the fruit must start at a length of 20 centimeters, and there must be between 4 to 8 bananas in a bunch. The products most commonly found on store shelves are from Ecuador, which covers 95% of Russia's needs, sending about 1.4 million tons of bananas annually.
Ordinary consumers are unlikely to notice changes after March 1. The new standard is primarily aimed at businesses, as wholesalers and suppliers will use it for quality control and documentation purposes.
Leonid Kholod, who previously held the position of Deputy Minister of Agriculture of the Russian Federation, commented on the innovation: "The light green color specified in the GOST guarantees that the banana will not rot on the way and will arrive on the shelf in good condition."
