The bananas in danger? Yes, but not so much.

2003/02/03 Imaz Amiano, Eneko - Elhuyar Zientziaren Komunikazioa

• Biologia

This has been warned by the World Health Organization (WHO), in view of the latest news published in Zientzia.net. It says it is true that the Cavendish variety is the most cultivated by large companies and is affected by the disease. However, this variety constitutes only 10% of world production and consumption and the disease is limited to Southeast Asia. This variety of bananas is sold mainly in Europe and North America. The problem would be aggravated if the disease spread to large plantations in South America and the Caribbean.

On the other hand, he warns of the danger of planting a single variety in extensive areas, the variety before Cavendish, as a result of the disappearance of Gros Michel.

The same note indicates that small producers plant many varieties, which should be taken into account in order to further improve the production of bananas.

More information is available on the OME page.