Keep your spuds fresh: Surprising hacks to stop sprouting
Potatoes are often an integral part of our meals, but storing them correctly can be challenging. To prevent potatoes from sprouting, simply put something unexpected in the bag.
17 November 2024 07:42
Potatoes are undoubtedly some of the most frequently consumed vegetables around the globe. However, we often notice unwanted sprouts breaking 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, cool places. The ideal storage temperature ranges from 4°C to 10°C.
Many people store potatoes in pantries or cellars, where it is easier to control temperature. Humidity also plays a significant role — potatoes should not be stored in very humid places to avoid spoilage. Regular inspection of potatoes and removing those that are starting to go bad also helps keep 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 bay leaves can prevent potatoes from sprouting. There are also other natural methods. One such method 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.
When potatoes start to sprout, many people wonder if they are still edible. The issue may be with certain toxic substances such as solanine, which is found in the sprouts. Consumed in excess, it can be harmful to health.
Experts advise against the consumption of significantly sprouted potatoes. Although removing the sprouts reduces the risk, it is best to completely avoid such potatoes, especially if they have a greenish hue.
Remember that..
Not all vegetables can be stored together. Storing potatoes with onions is not the best idea. Onions accelerate the spoilage process of potatoes, so it is recommended that they be stored separately.
