Banana powder is made from ripe bananas (Musa spp.) through dehydration and grinding processes. It is widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, baby food, and cosmetic industries due to its nutritional and functional properties. Below are the general specifications for banana powder:

Physical Properties:

Appearance: Fine, free-flowing powder

Color: Light cream to pale yellow (varies with ripeness)

Odor & Taste: Sweet, characteristic banana aroma and flavor

Texture: Smooth, fine powder without lumps

Mesh Size: 80-120 mesh (customizable)

Bulk Density: 0.4-0.7 g/ml

Solubility: Partially soluble in water

Chemical & Nutritional Properties (Per 100g):

Moisture Content: Max 5%

Carbohydrates: 75-85%

Sugars (Natural): 50-60%

Dietary Fiber: 3-8%

Protein Content: 3-5%

Fat Content: Max 1-2%

Total Ash Content: Max 5%

Acid Insoluble Ash: Max 0.5%

pH Level: 4.5 - 6.5

Microbiological Standards:

Total Plate Count: Max 50,000 CFU/g

Yeast & Mold: Max 500 CFU/g

Coliforms: <10 CFU/g

E. Coli: Absent

Salmonella: Absent

Aflatoxins (B1, B2, G1, G2): Max 10 ppb

Contaminants & Adulterants:

Pesticide Residues: As per country-specific regulations (FSSAI, EU, FDA)

Heavy Metals:

Lead (Pb): <0.2 ppm

Cadmium (Cd): <0.1 ppm

Arsenic (As): <0.1 ppm

Mercury (Hg): <0.05 ppm

Artificial Colors, Flavors & Preservatives: Must be absent

Applications of Banana Powder:

Food Industry: Used in baby food, bakery products, smoothies, dairy products, and energy bars

Pharmaceuticals & Ayurveda: Used for digestive health, weight gain, and dietary supplements

Cosmetics & Personal Care: Used in face masks, scrubs, and natural skin treatments

Animal Feed: Used in pet and livestock nutrition for added fiber and nutrients