Banana leaves have been used for ages as a serving plate. If you go towards some places around the world, you will find that most people use these leaves for serving food.
People in South Africa still serve food on a banana leaf to their guests on special occasions and festivals.
These leaves are said to be rich in antioxidants called polyphenols, which are also found in green tea and some leafy vegetables, and can prevent a number of lifestyle diseases.
One of the major reasons why this leaf is used to serve food is that they are large in size, and can be cut in different sizes and placed on a platter of any shape.
Also, you will be surprised to know that these leaves have a wax-like coating, which not just makes them easy to clean, but increases the taste of dishes as well.
1. Reasonable and affordable
Banana leaves are said to be quite reasonable and have a cost that’s lower than any other serving plate in the world. They are mostly sold at wholesale rates but can be sold in retail as well. Most of the time, the price of banana leaves varies and is based on the place you buy the banana leaves from!
2. Rich in antioxidants
These leaves are packed with polyphenols, which are also found in green tea and some leafy vegetables. Such antioxidants help in preventing ageing, several lifestyle diseases and some types of cancers as well.
3. The waterproof quality
Have you ever wondered how people are able to eat liquidy dishes on the banana leaf? Well, this is because of its waterproof quality. Small quantities of curries can easily be enjoyed on this plate.
4. Better hygiene than any other plate
These leaves have a waxy exterior and hence they are easy to clean as dust does not stick to them. Just wash them off and use them to eat food. It is for this reason that even some restaurants use banana leaves for serving food.
5. The eco-friendly quality
Most of the people resort to plastic and thermocol plates when there are any functions across the country, which adds to the mound of landfills as they are non-biodegradable and take many years to break down. This is where banana leaves can save you, as they are eco-friendly and can be turned into manure.
6. Proper accommodation
These leaves are larger than any other plant’s leaves and thus can be cut into various sizes and put on any size platter. Banana leaves are very large and can hold an entire meal in one piece. Without mixing up various curries, all of the food items available at the feast can be served on the banana leaf. That is why banana leaves are commonly used as a plate.
