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The Princess Royal allegedly starts her mornings with a simple breakfast, but there's a surprisingly specific requirement she insists on
13:57, 19 Jun 2026
Many members of the Royal Family are known for having their favourite foods , but Princess Anne's breakfast routine comes with a surprisingly strict rule. The Princess Royal, widely regarded as one of the hardest working royals, reportedly prefers a simple start to the day - and she's quite particular with how it's served.
According to HELLO! , the 75-year-old enjoys bananas for breakfast but will only eat them when they have become heavily ripened and developed dark skins. It is said she prefers bananas that have turned almost completely black rather than the bright yellow fruit most shoppers would typically pick up at Tesco , Asda or Sainsbury's .
Former royal chef Darren McGrady previously told Today that Anne's late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, also had specific preferences when it came to bananas. However, Anne's fondness for fully ripened fruit appears to be particularly notable.
While the preference may seem unusual to some, experts say very ripe bananas undergo several changes as they age. As the fruit ripens, its starches are gradually converted into natural sugars, making it softer and sweeter than less mature bananas.
According to the British Nutrition Foundation , bananas are a source of fibre, vitamin B6 and potassium, all of which play important roles in maintaining normal bodily functions. Potassium helps support healthy muscle and nerve function, while vitamin B6 contributes to normal energy metabolism.
Research published by the National Institutes of Health has also highlighted the importance of potassium-rich foods as part of a balanced diet. Adults are advised to consume around 3,500mg of potassium per day, according to NHS guidance .
The Princess Royal's breakfast habit may also have practical benefits. Very ripe bananas are often easier to digest than greener varieties because the breakdown of starches continues as the fruit matures.
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Despite her royal status, Anne's breakfast choice is a relatively inexpensive one. Bananas remain among the UK's most popular fruits, with millions purchased every week from supermarkets and local retailers.
The Princess is not the only royal known for favouring a straightforward breakfast. Other members of the Royal Family have reportedly opted for everything from porridge and cereal to eggs and toast, proving that simple meals remain a popular way to start the day.
For those looking to follow Anne's example, the key appears not to be what she eats, but when she eats it. While many people throw away bananas once they become heavily spotted, the Princess Royal reportedly waits until they reach exactly that stage before tucking in.
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