Can potatoes be eaten when they begin to sprout?
This is certainly a question most of us have probably wondered after encountering a potato that's been hiding in the back of the pantry a little too long. It's time to get to the bottom of this potato mystery once and for all. The short answer is "yes," you can still eat a potato that has begun to sprout. Hold up, though.
Is it safe to eat potatoes that have sprouts?
Yes, is the answer to, are sprouting potatoes ok to eat? They are perfectly safe to eat and won’t lead to any foodborne illness if you cut out the sprout and flesh that looks discolored after a quick assessment. Unless the “sprout” is like the full plant, there shouldn’t be any flavor or texture loss.
Are sprouting potatoes poisonous to eat?
Sprouted potatoes contain higher levels of glycoalkaloids, which can be toxic to humans when eaten in excess. Health problems linked to eating sprouted potatoes range from stomach upset to heart and nervous system problems, and, in severe cases, even death.
Can you still eat potatoes after they grow Spuds?
When a potato begins to sprout, the starch inside the potato converts to sugars enabling the sprout/plant to grow. If the potato is still in good shape and is firm, it is fine to prepare as usual and it still has most of its nutrients. But if the sprouts are long and the potato has shrunk and wrinkled, then it is best to throw it out.”
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Why do potatoes sprout?
Potatoes don’t need dirt — sometimes storage conditions inspire your spuds to start sprouting far from the ground! All they need is darkness and moisture — making your kitchen or pantry an ideal place to start growing "eyes." But these extra appendages don’t mean you have to trash your taters — if they are still firm when you squeeze them, the potatoes can be eaten — once you’ve removed the sprouts and cooked the potatoes..
How to use a peeler to remove sprouts
Plucking off the sprouts is easy because your vegetable peeler has a secret: Whether it’s old-school or Y-shaped, it was built to remove sprouts and brown spots. Use the intentional scoop-shaped tip of a regular peeler to dig out sprouts. Or the plastic tab on the side of your Y peeler to do the same.
So, what's happening when potatoes turn green?
Bottom line: green = garbage can. Exposure to light puts potatoes into chlorophyll-making (a green pigment) overdrive. But chlorophyll isn't the problem: These sunny conditions also make it possible for opportunistic glycoalkaloid toxins to thrive, which are dangerous.
What's the best way to store potatoes?
Potatoes will keep up to 2 months from purchase if stored correctly. Transfer them to a breathable bag — like paper or mesh — or put them in a cardboard box and stash in a cool, dry place. A basement is ideal. Your kitchen and pantry are probably too warm, which will make them start to sprout.
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So can you eat sprouted potatoes?
The short answer: It depends. When potatoes begin to sprout, the growths (those roots, eyes, and bumps) have a high concentration of compounds called glycoalkaloids that can cause a sharp, unpleasant, bitter taste.
And what about those dark spots?
If you peel potatoes and find a few dark or discolored spots on the flesh, don’t sweat it—this is likely the result of bruising during transport, or concentrations of natural sugars. Just cut those little spots out (they’re not exactly cute) and proceed.
Why Do Potatoes Sprout?
Potatoes will sprout when the conditions are right. If your spuds are in a well-lit area of the kitchen counter, in a basket with onions or on the counter after spending time in the refrigerator, you'll end up with "eyes."
Can You Eat Potatoes with Sprouts?
Sprouted potatoes follow the same food safety rules as any other aging produce; when in doubt, throw it out. According to the National Capital Poison Center, it's best to throw away potatoes that have already sprouted. That's because the sprouts are a sign that your potatoes contain higher levels of unsafe toxins than fresh ones do.
How to Keep Potatoes from Sprouting
Keep your potatoes in a cool, dry place like the pantry or a cabinet. These stackable baskets are ideal for tight storage spaces. Keep them away from onions, as the gases from those veggies could speed up the sprouting process.
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