FoodHow to keep your potatoes fresh: The surprising role of an apple

How to keep your potatoes fresh: The surprising role of an apple

What to do to prevent potatoes from sprouting at home?
What to do to prevent potatoes from sprouting at home?
Images source: © Adobe Stock
Mateusz Domański

6 September 2024 10:12

I'm sure many people are familiar with the problem of potatoes sprouting in a plastic bag or bucket. However, few people know that this process can be effectively stopped. All you need is fruit, which is available in practically every grocery shop!

Potatoes are present in practically every kitchen. They can be used in many ways. They are usually an addition to dinner or soups but are often the base for making pierogi fillings. You can also make vegetarian cutlets from potatoes.

Sometimes, potatoes have an issue with sprouting, which occurs shortly after purchasing them.

It's no wonder that many people are wondering how to stop potatoes from sprouting. Factors such as warmth, light, and moisture promote this process.

How to stop potatoes from sprouting?

If you store potatoes in darkness and at an appropriate temperature, they will stay fresh longer and not sprout. Do not store potatoes in places with high humidity.

A trick to stop potatoes from sprouting is to throw in one apple with them. These fruits emit ethylene, a substance that slows down the decomposition process of vegetables, which consequently slows down sprouting.

Remember that we should not eat heavily sprouted potatoes. They contain higher amounts of solanine. This is a natural toxin which, in larger doses, can harm your health.

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