If potatoes are stored in a place that is too hot or in bright light, there is a good chance that they will start to germinate quickly. But then, can we eat them without risk?
Many of us have discovered potatoes left in the corner of the kitchen. At the same time, given that these starchy foods are often purchased in sachets or fillets of several kilos, there are often survivors who have managed to escape their fate. But even though potatoes are known to last quite a long time, after a while they eventually sprout, like most edible tubers or bulbs. But, then, what to do? Should you throw them away or eat them anyway? Is it safe to eat them if they have small green shoots?
It is true that certain vegetables release substances harmful to health with their sprouts. In the worst cases, this can lead to poisoning. But not everything should be thrown in the trash after germination. However, if, in popular belief, sprouted potatoes are toxic, they are in reality not unfit for consumption. Only tubers that have turned green contain a harmful substance and should be avoided.
This is solanine, a natural substance present in many vegetables belonging to the nightshade family, such as tomatoes or eggplants, which repels fungi and animals and helps these foods grow well. Ingested in high doses, it can be toxic to humans. Afterwards, you are not going to die if you ingest it! But, beyond a certain dose, you risk experiencing digestive discomfort. And we still have to exceed this dose! You would have to eat 2 kg of potato sprouts to suffer from headaches and vomiting! There is therefore very little risk! Eating a few sprouted potatoes from time to time should therefore not cause you any problems.
However, you can take some precautions before consuming it. Remember to carefully remove sprouts and green areas from potatoes before preparing and cooking them. And if they are a little soft, don’t panic, you can also eat them without any problem! Their nutritional intake will only be reduced. No mess! Remember that it is advisable to store potatoes in a cool, dark and dry place to reduce the risk of germination.