Bunker That Banana

This banana-protecting device can raise some eyebrows with its admittedly phallic, but rigorously ergonomic, design. It’s certainly a conversation-starter.

Gadget name: Banana Bunker

Price: $6.99

It looks like: The Banana Bunker is a clear, brightly colored plastic tube shaped like a banana, with open ends and an accordion-like midsection.

How it’s supposed to work: You open the two halves, pop in a banana, throw the Banana Bunker in your tote bag and take along this fragile fresh fruit without fear of squishing and bruising.

How we tested it: We put matching bananas from the same bunch into our bag—one in the Banana Bunker, the other loose—and after two days of commuting (and resisting snacking on our test samples), the non-Bunkered banana was bruised, overripe, and half-destroyed. The Bunkered banana was in perfect condition.

How it actually works: It basically works as promised, except it might not fit smaller, curvier bananas.

Drawbacks: The Bunker’s accordion midsection is pretty inflexible, and you just can’t close the two halves if the banana has much of an arc.

Good to know: People tend to burst out laughing when they see it, and the innuendo starts flying. Men in particular have refused to have anything to do with it.

My favorite part: It’s easy to open and stays closed (even if you play catch with a banana inside).

Best for: Those who are incredibly secure with their fruit-hood.

Could you handle the Banana Bunker?