Bananas are one of the world’s most loved fruits. They’re easy to peel, packed with nutrition, and incredibly versatile. But the real debate is: at what stage is a banana truly perfect to eat? The viral banana ripeness chart below shows 15 stages of banana ripening, from firm and green to soft and heavily spotted. So, let’s break down each stage and discover what number might be the perfect banana for you.

Understanding the Banana Ripeness Stages

Stage 1–3: Firm & Green

At stages 1 through 3, bananas are still green and very firm. While they’re not the sweetest at this point, they’re lower in sugar and higher in resistant starch, which acts like fiber. This stage is great for people watching their blood sugar levels. However, many find the taste a bit starchy and the texture harder to chew.

Best for: Gut health, weight management, and savory dishes (like frying green bananas).

Stage 4–6: Just Turning Yellow

These bananas are beginning to ripen. They’re easier to digest than the green ones but still not overly sweet. The texture is firmer, and they have a balanced taste. Fitness enthusiasts often prefer this stage because the sugar content is moderate, providing a steady energy boost without a big spike.

Best for: Pre-workout snacks and those who enjoy a mild sweetness.

Stage 7–9: Bright Yellow & Spot-Free

Here we hit the stage that many people call “the perfect banana.” These bananas are golden yellow, smooth, and sweet without being mushy. The starch has mostly converted into natural sugars, making them easy to digest and full of quick energy. Stage 7 or 8 is often the universal favorite.

Best for: Eating raw, adding to cereal, smoothies, or topping pancakes.

Stage 10–12: Yellow with Brown Spots

Spotted bananas are extra sweet. The brown speckles show that the starch has completely transformed into sugar. They’re softer, easier to mash, and rich in antioxidants. In fact, studies suggest bananas at this stage may have higher anti-cancer properties due to increased antioxidant levels.

Best for: Baking banana bread, blending into smoothies, or sweet healthy desserts.

Stage 13–15: Very Brown & Overripe

These bananas are soft, heavily spotted, and often considered too ripe for eating raw. However, they’re extremely sweet and perfect for recipes. They’re ideal for banana bread, muffins, pancakes, or even freezing for smoothies.

Best for: Baking, desserts, or freezing for later use.

Which Number Is the Perfect Banana?

The answer depends on your taste and health goals:

  • If you like less sweet and more firm: Go for Stages 4–6.
  • If you want a classic sweet banana: Stages 7–9 are widely considered perfect.
  • If you love ultra-sweet and soft: Choose Stages 10–12.
  • If you’re baking or making smoothies: Stages 13–15 are the best.

Most people agree that Stage 7 or 8 is the “perfect banana”—bright yellow, no spots, and perfectly sweet.

Health Benefits at Every Stage

  • Green bananas (1–3): High in resistant starch and good for digestive health.
  • Yellow bananas (4–9): Balanced energy, potassium-rich, and easy to digest.
  • Spotted bananas (10–12): High in antioxidants and natural sweetness.
  • Overripe bananas (13–15): Perfect for recipes, reducing food waste, and rich in flavor.

Final Thoughts

So, what number is the perfect banana? There’s no single answer—it really depends on personal preference. The beauty of bananas is that every stage of ripeness has its own unique benefits and uses. Whether you’re a fan of the bright yellow Stage 7 or you prefer the extra-sweet Stage 12, there’s a banana stage for everyone.

What’s your perfect banana number?