Potatoes are a staple in many households, but sometimes, you may find that your potatoes have sprouted. You might wonder, “Can eating sprouted potatoes make me sick?” It’s a valid concern, as sprouting is often associated with changes in the potato’s composition. Let’s break down what happens when potatoes sprout, what risks they may pose, and whether it’s safe to eat them.
1. What Causes Potatoes to Sprout?
Potatoes sprout when they begin to grow new shoots, typically because they’ve been stored for a while in warm or humid conditions. When this happens, the potato uses its stored energy to form these sprouts, which can make the potato seem less fresh. However, sprouting is a natural part of the potato’s life cycle, but it also signals that the potato is starting to change chemically.
2. What Are the Risks of Eating Sprouted Potatoes?
The main concern with sprouted potatoes lies in a natural toxin called solanine. Solanine is a glycoalkaloid that the potato produces as a defense mechanism against pests and disease. When potatoes are exposed to light or start sprouting, solanine levels can increase, particularly in the green parts of the potato, such as the skin or the sprouts.
Consuming solanine in large amounts can cause food poisoning symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, and dizziness. While you’d have to eat a large quantity of sprouted or green potatoes to experience serious symptoms, it’s still something to be cautious about.
3. How to Minimize the Risks of Eating Sprouted Potatoes
If you find that your potatoes have sprouted, it’s not necessarily the end of the world. In many cases, it’s still safe to eat the potato as long as you take the proper precautions:
- Remove the Sprouts: The sprouts themselves contain the highest concentrations of solanine. If you notice any sprouts, simply cut them off and discard them.
- Peel the Potato: If the potato has turned green or you notice a greenish tint to the skin, it’s a sign that solanine may be present. Peeling the potato can help reduce the amount of solanine, as the toxin primarily resides in the skin and near the sprouts.
- Check for Softness or Wrinkling: If the potato has become soft, wrinkled, or discolored beyond just the sprouting, it’s best to discard it. A potato that is overly soft or shriveled may have gone bad and could cause digestive issues.
4. When to Throw Away Sprouted Potatoes
If you notice that the sprouts are very long, or if the potato is overly green or mushy, it’s best to throw it away. At this point, the potato has likely deteriorated beyond safe consumption, and the risk of solanine poisoning increases. If in doubt, it’s better to err on the side of caution and discard any potatoes that seem too far gone.
5. Can You Prevent Potatoes from Sprouting?
To avoid the need for dealing with sprouted potatoes in the first place, proper storage is key. Store potatoes in a cool, dark place, like a pantry or cupboard, away from sunlight. Keep them in a breathable container, such as a paper bag, to allow air circulation. This will help slow down the sprouting process and keep your potatoes fresh for a longer time.
While eating sprouted potatoes can potentially make you sick due to the increased solanine levels in the sprouts and green areas, it’s usually safe to eat them if you take precautions. By removing the sprouts, peeling the potato, and checking for any signs of rot, you can minimize the risks and enjoy your potatoes safely. If a potato looks or feels too far gone, it’s always best to discard it. With proper storage and handling, you can keep your potatoes fresh and avoid sprouting altogether.
So, next time you find sprouted potatoes in your kitchen, just follow these tips, and you’ll know how to handle them with care!