It’s an original tip that will help you preserve them better…
The potato, a staple food in many homes, is valued for its longevity. It is an easy food to preserve and there are countless recipes using it. Our great chefs from starred or gourmet restaurants have long fallen for the “potato”. Puree from Joël Robuchon, soufflé potatoes from Top Chef… Yes, potatoes can be the center of a king’s dish.
Sadly, the problem of sprouts and wilting remains a concern for many. Luckily, experts recently revealed a simple method to prolong the freshness of potatoes, making it even more convenient. The solution to this common problem lies in another familiar food: the apple. Yes, you read that right, the apple – a common fruit in kitchens around the world. According to a 2016 study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology, apples have a surprising effect on potatoes stored nearby.
This discovery is due to ethylene, a natural gas produced by apples, as well as other fruits such as bananas, melons, pears and peaches. Ethylene has the ability to slow down or even stop the germination process of potatoes. This is an interesting interaction, because potatoes are one of the few foods that are not negatively affected by ethylene. In fact, they benefit from its presence!
To make the most of this synergy, it is therefore advisable to store apples and potatoes together, for example in the same bowl or fruit basket. However, it is important to note that while ethylene is beneficial for potatoes, it can speed up the ripening of other products. Therefore, it is best to keep apples and potatoes separate from ethylene-sensitive products, such as other fruits (especially citrus fruits) or vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage.
In addition, for optimal conservation of potatoes, it is recommended to place them in a cool, dark place, away from hot appliances such as the oven or dryer. A cupboard away from these heat sources, where potatoes can be stored in a mesh or jute bag, is ideal.
This simple, yet science-backed tip offers a practical solution for extending the life of potatoes. Not only does this help reduce food waste, but it also ensures your potatoes stay fresh and ready to use when you need them.