If you don't want potatoes to sprout while you are storing them waiting for you to use them, try this simple solution.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Properly Store Potatoes
Step 1. Keep them in a cool place
The ideal temperature for storing potatoes is between 7 and 10 ° C. If necessary, you can also store them at a lower temperature, in a range between 4 and 7 ° C, without the flavor or texture being excessively affected. Wherever you decide to store potatoes, make sure the temperature remains constant. If there are excessive fluctuations, the potatoes may begin to sprout or rot.
If you store potatoes below 5 ° C, use them within 6-8 months. If you store them above 5 ° C, use them within 3-4 months
Step 2. Make sure the place where you store the potatoes is dry and do not wash them until you are ready to use them
Do not get them wet to prevent moisture from being trapped in the peel, otherwise they will rot prematurely.
If the place you store them is too dry, the potatoes will tend to shrivel. If this happens, move them to a place with a higher humidity level: 80-90% is the ideal condition. Also, make sure there is good ventilation, otherwise the potatoes will rot
Step 3. Store the potatoes in a paper bag for proper ventilation
Do not put them in a plastic bag so as not to trap heat and moisture. If you don't have a paper bag available, you can use a mesh or perforated plastic bag to ensure good air circulation while preventing the potatoes from drying out. Options suitable for storing potatoes include:
- Baskets and baskets;
- Cardboard boxes;
- Cotton or muslin bags;
- Crates or wooden boxes.
Step 4. Store the potatoes in the dark
Among the most suitable environments there are cellars, basements, wardrobes and garages. Too much light, especially sunlight, can cause them to germinate. Plus, the light can cause potatoes to produce too much of a chemical called solanine, which causes them to turn green and bitter.
If you notice that the skin is turning green, remove it before cooking and eating the potatoes. If the pulp has also taken on a greenish tinge, discard the whole potato
Step 5. Protect the potatoes from heat
Make sure they don't get hot, for example because the place where you store them is next to the oven or refrigerator, otherwise they will inevitably begin to sprout.
Method 2 of 2: Additional Tips for Storing Potatoes
Step 1. Do not keep potatoes near onions, apples, bananas, pears or other fruits
There are still many debates about whether apples can prevent potatoes from sprouting. However, some recent studies have shown that, as they ripen, apples release a gas called ethylene that prompts the potatoes to sprout. The same studies also showed that proximity to potatoes can make apples soft and mushy.
On the other hand, some people argue that keeping an apple or two next to potatoes actually helps prevent them from sprouting
Step 2. Consider placing herbs between the potatoes
According to experts, the oils contained in some herbs, such as lavender, sage, and rosemary, can extend the shelf life of potatoes. It seems that those same oils can also prevent them from germinating.
Step 3. Try using peppermint essential oil (peppermint or spearmint)
Pour a few drops onto an absorbent card and stick it into the potato container. Studies have shown that these oils can inhibit the process that leads to sprouting potatoes.
- Reapply essential oil every 2-3 weeks or as needed.
- Do not use this method if the potato container is made of plastic or metal, as essential oils can deteriorate these materials.
- It would also be possible to use clove essential oil, but since it requires a particular application (thermal or gaseous diffusion) it is not recommended for home use.
Step 4. Be aware that potatoes will sprout sooner or later, usually within 1-4 months
Nothing lasts forever, especially food. While you can prevent them from sprouting prematurely, they will sooner or later sprout and rot. Depending on the variety, the first shoots will begin to develop naturally within 30-140 days. According to some testimonies, potatoes of the following varieties generally last longer than others: Katahdin, Yellow Finn and Yukon Gold.
If you want to keep several varieties of potatoes, try to consume the ones that tend to last less first
Advice
- It is best not to store potatoes for too long during the months between winter and spring as this is the time of year when they naturally tend to sprout.
- Plant sprouted potatoes in the ground instead of throwing them away.
- Moisture is good for potatoes, but not if it gets trapped inside the skin or if there is poor air circulation.
- Check the potatoes every 2-3 weeks and discard the rotten ones, otherwise you risk the others spoiling too.
- If there isn't a cool, dark, dry place in the kitchen to store potatoes, try putting them in a cupboard.
- If you want to store potatoes in the cellar, do not place them directly on the cold floor. It is best to store them in a basket or in a paper or fabric bag.
Warnings
- Do not store potatoes in a container or plastic bag, as it blocks perspiration and increases the likelihood of them sprouting and rotting.
- Do not keep potatoes in the refrigerator. Low temperatures are good for potatoes, but too much cold can cause them to turn dark during cooking and change their texture. If you can't help but refrigerate them, let them reach room temperature before cooking.
- Never eat sprouted or greenish potatoes. Remove the green shoots and parts with the knife. If the potatoes are mushy or shriveled, throw them away whole.
- Potatoes can be toxic. Symptoms of intoxication include: dysentery, headache, stomach pain, vomiting and difficulty breathing. Contact the medical service immediately if you experience any of these complaints.
