Is It Safe To Eat Potatoes With Sprouts On Them?

The question of whether it’s safe to eat potatoes with sprouts on them has long troubled those trying to minimize food waste. As we strive to reduce the disposal of food items that might still be usable, potatoes often prove to be a challenging case. They have a tendency to sprout, which can make them unappealing and may leave us wondering if they’re still suitable for consumption.

Potatoes, unlike some other vegetables, are notorious for their limited shelf life. The appearance of greenish sprouts on them is a common occurrence. These sprouts are a sign that the potato is preparing to grow, as they are the potato’s way of entering a more dormant state, ready to produce new plants if left undisturbed. While these sprouts may make the potato look unsightly and somewhat rotten, it doesn’t necessarily mean the entire potato is destined for the trash.

The critical question here is whether these sprouts themselves are safe to eat. The answer is a resounding no. These sprouts contain various toxins that can lead to unpleasant symptoms like vomiting, headaches, and digestive issues if consumed. Therefore, it’s best to avoid eating the sprouts.

However, simply removing the sprouts doesn’t automatically render the potato safe for consumption. Poison Control recommends discarding potatoes with sprouts, erring on the side of caution. Nevertheless, Dr. Rich Novy, a geneticist employed by the USDA Agricultural Research Service, offers a more nuanced perspective. He suggests that the condition of the potato itself plays a pivotal role.

If the potato is still firm and not soft or mushy, it may still be salvageable. On the other hand, if the potato has deteriorated to the point of being soft and mushy, it’s time to bid it farewell. Dr. Novy’s approach is a pragmatic one, focusing on the physical state of the potato rather than a blanket rule based on sprouts alone.

In conclusion, while the sprouts on potatoes should be avoided at all costs due to their toxic nature, the potato itself may still be safe to eat if it hasn’t deteriorated. Proper storage and timely use can help reduce the chances of encountering this dilemma and potentially wasting food.