Should you throw green potatoes in the garbage?
You know you have potatoes in the pantry, and you have the perfectpotato recipein mind for using them.
Now you’re probably wondering, “are green potatoes safe to eat?”
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
It’s possible to eat green potatoes if they’re prepared correctly, but eating them is not recommended.
We reached out to the experts to learn more.
Why Do Potatoes Turn Green?
Chlorophyll is harmless, but its an indicator that the potato’s chemistry is changing, explains Weinstein.
Can You Eat Green Potatoes?
The answer is: It depends.
“The green areas contain compounds that cause illness and off tastes, says Weinstein.
However, there are still parts of the potato that are edible.
“you might salvage potatoes that have partial green areas,” says Weinstein.
“Peel the skin, and cut off the discolored parts.
But, you wont want to use these potatoes for some potato recipes.
Dont prepare them as bakers or whole boiled, he says.
The unaffected parts are fine for mashed, fried, and other dishes.
Not all chefs would recommend using a potato that is green or has some green spots.
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
How Can You Prevent Potatoes From Turning Green?
Prevent greening and spoilage by keeping potatoes out of sunlight, says Weinstein.
Keeping them in a cool area will alsoprevent sprouting.
What Is the Best Way To Store Potatoes?
Potatoes are best kept in a dry, cool spot and away from sunlight.
Potatoes also need air circulation to stay fresh, regardless of greening.
If youre thinking that the refrigerator is a good place for potatoes, think again.
The cold temperatures will affect the potato, and not in a good way.
Bayla also shares two more storage tips: Only keep [potatoes] for one to two weeks.
And be sure to keep them away from onions!
Frequently Asked Questions
No,boiling potatoesdoes not remove solanine.
Yes, potatoes can cause food poisoning, particularly potatoes that have been cooked.
Michigan State University Extension.Storing potatoes for quality and food safety.
Updated November 2, 2016.
U.S. Department of Agriculture.Are green potatoes dangerous?.
Updated August 23, 2024.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln.Greening Potatoes: The Solution.
World Health Organization.Natural toxins in food.
Updated March 10, 2023.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln.Potatoes Your Way.
North Dakota State University Extension.Dakota Gardener: Storing Garden Produce.
Updated October 5, 2021.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.What you oughta Know about Foodborne Illnesses.
