Potatoes are a staple food in many households around the world. They are versatile, nutritious, and easy to prepare. However, sometimes potatoes can start to sprout, which raises questions about whether they are safe to eat. In this article, we will explore the safety of eating sprouted potatoes and what experts have to say about it.
What are sprouted potatoes?
Sprouted potatoes are potatoes that have started to grow shoots from their eyes or nodes. These shoots are a natural part of the potato’s life cycle, and they emerge when the potato is exposed to warmth and moisture. While some people discard sprouted potatoes, others choose to eat them.
Are sprouted potatoes safe to eat?
The safety of eating sprouted potatoes is a controversial topic. Some experts say that sprouted potatoes are safe to eat, while others advise against it. The main concern with sprouted potatoes is the potential presence of solanine, a natural toxin that can cause food poisoning.
Solanine is a glycoalkaloid that is found in many members of the nightshade family, including potatoes. It is a natural pesticide that protects the potato plant from insects and other predators. While solanine is not harmful in small amounts, it can be toxic when consumed in large quantities.
The amount of solanine in a potato increases as it sprouts, and the highest concentrations are found in the sprouts and the skin. Eating potatoes that contain high levels of solanine can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. In severe cases, it can even lead to coma or death.
Risks of eating sprouted potatoes:
The risks of eating sprouted potatoes are primarily related to the presence of solanine. As mentioned earlier, solanine is a natural toxin that can cause food poisoning. The amount of solanine in a potato increases as it sprouts, so the longer the sprouts, the higher the concentration of solanine.
While most healthy adults can tolerate small amounts of solanine without any adverse effects, children, pregnant women, and people with compromised immune systems may be more susceptible to its toxic effects. In these individuals, even small amounts of solanine can cause serious health problems.
Symptoms of solanine poisoning typically appear within a few hours to a few days after eating the contaminated potato. They may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, headache, dizziness, and fever. In severe cases, solanine poisoning can cause respiratory failure, seizures, and even death.
Another risk associated with eating sprouted potatoes is the potential for bacterial contamination. Bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella can be present on the surface of the potato, especially if it has been stored in warm and humid conditions. If the sprouted potato is not cooked properly, these bacteria can cause food poisoning.
Benefits of eating sprouted potatoes:
While there are certainly risks associated with eating sprouted potatoes, some experts argue that they also offer some health benefits. Sprouted potatoes contain higher levels of certain nutrients than non-sprouted potatoes. For example, they are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.
Sprouted potatoes also contain elevated levels of enzymes that help to break down complex carbohydrates into simpler sugars, making them easier to digest. This can be especially beneficial for people with digestive issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome.
How to store potatoes to prevent sprouting
Before we dive into the safety of sprouted potatoes, let’s first talk about how to store potatoes to prevent sprouting in the first place. Potatoes naturally contain a hormone called auxin, which triggers sprouting when the conditions are right. To prevent sprouting, it’s important to store potatoes in a cool, dark, and dry place. Ideally, the temperature should be between 45 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and the humidity should be around 95 percent. Here are some tips to help you store potatoes properly:
- Keep potatoes in a well-ventilated container. A cardboard box or a mesh bag are both good options.
- Avoid storing potatoes near onions, as onions release a gas that can cause potatoes to sprout faster.
- Do not store potatoes in the refrigerator, as the low temperature can cause the starch in the potato to convert to sugar, resulting in a gritty texture when cooked.
- Check your potatoes regularly and remove any that show signs of sprouting or decay.
By following these guidelines, you can extend the shelf life of your potatoes and prevent them from sprouting prematurely.
Sprouted potatoes may not be safe for consumption due to the presence of toxic compounds called solanine and chaconine. These compounds can cause a range of symptoms, from gastrointestinal distress to neurological effects, and can be particularly harmful to vulnerable populations such as children, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
However, if the sprouts are removed and any green areas or bruises are cut away, the potatoes can be safe to eat. It is also important to store potatoes in a cool, dark, and dry place to prevent sprouting in the first place. While sprouted potatoes may be tempting to salvage, it is best to err on the side of caution and opt for fresh, non-sprouted potatoes whenever possible.
