Park Slope Trends Report: Babies Out, Baby Bananas In

Okay, maybe babies are still popular in the neighborhood, but according to a recent story in the Wall Street Journal, baby bananas may be inching their way past them in preciousness.

Though the large Cavendish banana has been a staple for breakfast in our country for decades, the demand for just one kind of banana has created a monoculture that may not be too beneficial to the fruit, or, ultimately, to banana lovers. So some people — from those promoting biodiversity to those who just like something new — are flocking toward petite versions of the produce, apparently.

The WSJ detailed the trend at length, stopping by the Key Food at 130 7th Avenue, on the corner of Carroll, where they spoke to produce manager Mario Marabello, who stocks the baby bananas, which are apparently a hot commodity:

“They look good,” Mr. Marabello said. “Most people don’t know what they are, but they sell here. I carry them because they sell.” He shifted the baby crate onto a conveyor belt. “Now these will go right upstairs.”

They spoke to one customer who was buying a pre-packed bunch, priced at $1.49 per pound, who felt they were a bargain — though we’re pretty sure we’ve gotten the Cavendish at the Key Food recently for around 59 cents per pound.

Still, a case of baby bananas sold out in a day here.

So why is Park Slope bananas for these baby bananas? Is it because of all the families, and these little bananas are perfectly kid-sized? Are we just searching for the new kale?