The method was shared by Taiwanese creator duo The Fish Paste Couple on their Facebook page, FPC Channel, based on the experience of an X user who had struggled with a fruit fly infestation associated with bananas, according to The Standard.

As temperatures rose, the problem became serious enough for the user to call a professional pest controller.

The specialist suggested rinsing newly purchased bananas under running water for around 30 seconds before storing them.

According to the pest controller, banana peels may carry numerous fruit fly eggs that are too small to be easily seen. If the eggs remain on the fruit after it is brought indoors, they may hatch and contribute to a growing fruit fly population in the home.

Washing the peel is therefore intended to remove some of these eggs before they hatch, rather than simply preventing adult fruit flies from landing on or damaging the bananas.

The user said the fruit fly problem disappeared after adopting the practice.

Two other inexpensive ways to control fruit flies

Make a homemade trap: Mix white vinegar, dishwashing liquid and water. The smell of vinegar attracts fruit flies, while the soap lowers the liquid’s surface tension, causing the insects to sink and become trapped, according to The Kitchn.

Place garlic near banana stems: A garlic clove placed close to the stem may help deter adult fruit flies because garlic releases allicin, a pungent compound that some insects avoid. Cutting or peeling the clove releases more of the compound, though it may need replacing every 12 to 24 hours as the effect fades.