Avoid potato sprouts: Simple storage hacks unveiled
Potatoes are often an integral part of our meals, but their proper storage can be challenging. What can you do to prevent potatoes from sprouting? Simply put this in the bag.
17 November 2024 06:32
Potatoes are undoubtedly one of the most frequently consumed vegetables worldwide. However, we often notice unwanted sprouts poking through their skin, affecting both taste and freshness. Why do potatoes sprout?
Like many other vegetables, they are sensitive to storage conditions. Light and heat are the main culprits accelerating the sprouting process. Therefore, it's advisable to keep potatoes in dark and cool places. The ideal storage temperature ranges from 4°C to 10°C.
Many people store potatoes in pantries or cellars, where temperature control is easier. Humidity also plays a significant role — potatoes should not be stored in very humid places to avoid spoilage. Regularly inspecting potatoes and removing those that are starting to spoil also helps in keeping them in good condition.
How to prevent potatoes from sprouting?
There is a simple yet effective way to prevent this. One of the tricks our grandmothers knew was to put bay leaves in the box with potatoes. Bay leaves limit the development of microorganisms and slow down the sprouting process. Additionally, they have antifungal and antibacterial properties, which naturally extend the shelf life of potatoes.
Not only can bay leaves help stop potatoes from sprouting, but there are also other natural ways. One of them is to place an apple in the container with the potatoes. Apples release ethylene — a gas that delays the ripening and consequently the sprouting process.
Can you eat potatoes with sprouts?
When potatoes sprout, many wonder if they are still edible. The problem may be certain toxic substances such as solanine, which is found in the sprouts. Consumed in excess, it can be harmful to health.
Experts advise avoiding the consumption of significantly sprouted potatoes. Although removing the sprouts reduces the risk, it is best to completely avoid such potatoes, especially if they show a greenish hue.
Remember that..
Not all vegetables can be stored together. Combining potatoes with onions is not the best idea. Onions accelerate the spoilage process of potatoes, so it is recommended to store them separately.
