Can You Eat Potatoes After They Sprout?

In a Nutshell

• Sprouted potatoes can be safe to eat if handled properly.
• Cut away all eyes, sprouts, and any green areas.
• If too much of the potato is green or soft, toss it.
• Consuming sprouted potatoes poses a risk of solanine poisoning.
• Proper storage can prevent potatoes from sprouting.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What Happens When Potatoes Sprout
3. Risks of Eating Sprouted Potatoes
   • Solanine Poisoning
4. How to Safely Eat Sprouted Potatoes
5. Prevention Tips
6. FAQ

Introduction

Potatoes are a widely enjoyed staple in many diets around the world. However, when these tubers start sprouting, many people wonder, “Can you eat potatoes after they sprout?” To answer this question, we must delve into the science behind sprouted potatoes and whether they remain safe to consume.

What Happens When Potatoes Sprout

When potatoes sprout, it means they have begun to grow new plants. This usually happens when they are stored for too long or not kept in ideal conditions. Sprouting results from the conversion of the potato’s starch into sugar, which supplies energy for the new plant growth.

Risks of Eating Sprouted Potatoes

The primary risk of eating sprouted potatoes lies in the development of toxic compounds known as glycoalkaloids, including solanine and chaconine. These toxins are more concentrated in the sprouts, eyes, and green parts of the potato.

Solanine Poisoning

Solanine is a natural toxin that potatoes produce as a defense mechanism against pests and diseases. Consuming high amounts of solanine can cause solanine poisoning, a condition that leads to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and even neurological issues.

• Symptoms of solanine poisoning:
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Gastrointestinal distress
  • In severe cases, hallucinations, paralysis, and convulsions

How to Safely Eat Sprouted Potatoes

To safely consume sprouted potatoes, follow these guidelines:

• Thoroughly inspect the potato.
• Remove all sprouts, eyes, and green parts with a knife.
• If more than 50% of the potato is green or soft, it’s best to discard it.

If you practice these steps, the remaining potato is generally safe to eat and cook.

Prevention Tips

To keep your potatoes from sprouting prematurely, adhere to these storage tips:

• Store potatoes in a cool, dry, and dark place.
• Keep them at a temperature of about 45-55°F (7-13°C).
• Avoid storing potatoes with onions, as gases released by onions can cause potatoes to sprout more quickly.

For more tips on how to store your vegetables, check out our “Can You Eat Potatoes After They Sprout” guide.

FAQ

1. What are the signs that a sprouted potato should not be eaten?
– Potatoes that are significantly soft, shriveled, or have excessive green coloring should be discarded.

2. Can cooking sprouted potatoes destroy toxins?
– While cooking may reduce glycoalkaloid levels, it does not completely eliminate them. It’s safer to remove the affected areas.

3. How can I store potatoes to last longer?
– Store them in a cool, dry, and dark place away from light and moisture. Ensure good ventilation.

4. Is it safe to eat the sprouts from potatoes?
– No, the sprouts contain high levels of glycoalkaloids and should be removed before consumption.

5. Can I plant sprouted potatoes instead of eating them?
– Yes, you can plant sprouted potatoes to grow new plants.

6. Are organic potatoes less likely to sprout?
– Organic potatoes are not treated with sprout inhibitors, so they may sprout just as easily or even faster than conventional potatoes.

7. What varieties of potatoes are less likely to sprout?
– Some varieties like russets and Yukon Gold have longer storage life and are less likely to sprout quickly if stored properly.

For further reading, you might find these resources helpful:
– Healthline: Potatoes 101
– Mayo Clinic: Solanine Toxicity
– WikiHow: How to Store Potatoes

Additionally, for comprehensive information, you can visit our page on Can You Eat? for wider insights into various foods.