The banana is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, belonging to the Musaceae family (it is a triploid hybrid of Musa acuminata and Musa balbisiana). Its fruit can be eaten both green and ripe, and can be prepared by frying, roasting, boiling, or baking. It is a highly versatile food, rich in starch and energy.
It is used industrially for the production of chips and flour-based derivatives. The banana plant grows relatively easily and can be used as a source of shade for coffee and other crops. The export of this product is becoming increasingly important, with an international market growth of up to 9%.