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Are Sprouted Potatoes Safe to Eat?

Published in Food Safety 2 mins read

Whether or not sprouted potatoes are safe to eat depends on the extent of the sprouting and the condition of the potato. Sprouted potatoes that are still firm, have relatively small sprouts, and don't show any wrinkles or shriveling can be okay to eat if you take precautions, however, you could still potentially get sick (10-Mar-2023).

Here's a breakdown:

  • When it might be okay: If the potatoes are firm, the sprouts are small, and there are no wrinkles or shriveling, you can attempt to make them safe by:

    • Thoroughly removing the sprouts: Cut them off completely.
    • Cutting away any soft spots or blemishes: Be generous in your trimming.
  • When to discard the potato: If the potato is significantly sprouted, shriveled, or wrinkled, it is best to discard it entirely (10-Mar-2023).

Why the Concern?

Sprouts contain higher concentrations of glycoalkaloids, such as solanine and chaconine. These compounds are naturally present in potatoes and are toxic in high doses. Symptoms of glycoalkaloid poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

Feature Safe to Eat (with precautions) Unsafe to Eat (discard)
Firmness Firm Shriveled, soft
Sprout Size Small Large, extensive sprouting
Appearance No wrinkles or shriveling Wrinkled and/or shriveled
Action Remove sprouts and any soft spots/blemishes Discard entirely

Important Note: Even when taking precautions, there is still a potential risk of illness. It is crucial to carefully inspect the potato and remove all sprouts and blemishes before cooking. When in doubt, it is always best to err on the side of caution and discard the potato.