Marita G./Yelp
- Cavendish, the most commonly available banana variety, is facing the risk of extinction.
- A fungus that ravages roots is gradually eradicating Cavendish from banana farms all over the world.
- Experts we spoke to have multiple ideas for a solution but don't agree on what's best.
Each year, humans worldwide eat over 100 billion bananas, most of which are a type called the Cavendish. But perhaps not for long.
A fungal disease threatens to wipe Cavendish bananas off the face of the Earth. Some scientists are genetically modifying the fruit to be more resistant to disease.
But the best solution to the problem, some argue, is for farmers to completely overhaul banana production and stop growing only one variety of fruit altogether.