Can You Eat Sprouted Potatoes …Here’s What You Need to Know
You’ve probably experienced it before.
You reach into the pantry, grab a potato for dinner, and notice several little “eyes” staring back at you. Tiny sprouts have begun growing from the surface, leaving you with an important question:
Are sprouted potatoes still safe to eat?
The answer isn’t always straightforward.
While potatoes are a kitchen staple that can last for weeks when stored properly, they don’t stay fresh forever. Once sprouts begin to appear, it’s worth taking a closer look before adding them to your next meal.
Here’s what causes potatoes to sprout, whether they’re safe to eat, and how to keep them fresh for longer.
Why Do Potatoes Sprout?
Potatoes are living plant structures, which means they naturally try to grow when conditions are favorable.
Sprouting usually occurs when potatoes are exposed to:
Light
Warm temperatures
Humidity
Ethylene gas from nearby produce, especially onions
If your potatoes are sitting on the kitchen counter, near a sunny window, or stored alongside onions, they’re more likely to develop sprouts.
Many people assume refrigeration will solve the problem, but surprisingly, storing potatoes in the refrigerator is not recommended.
Cold temperatures can convert some of the potato’s starch into sugar, affecting both flavor and texture when cooked.
Are Sprouted Potatoes Safe to Eat?
The answer depends on how far the sprouting process has progressed.
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