Abstract: A method for storing and transporting fruit, particularly bananas, so as to provide an optimized atmosphere for ripening of the fruit, is disclosed. The method utilizes fruit placed within a flexible bag which is placed in a box comprising a container and a lid. In this method, the lid is removed from the box and the neck of the flexible bag is opened so that the fruit is open to the atmosphere. A flexible cover, which is at least partially gas-permeable, is placed over the opening of the container; and the lid is replaced on the box over the flexible cover.