On The Spruce Official TikTok channel, it was revealed that “potatoes and onions are friends in the pan but never in the pantry”.
Storing potatoes next to onions will cause them to sprout prematurely, the video warned.
This is because onions release gases that encourage the growth of new potato sprouts.
The key is to “store potatoes in a basket or a mesh bag” so that there is good airflow.
“Moisture is the enemy,” the video continued, which can lead to soggy potatoes that are good for no one.
Experts at Potato House, a family-run potato-growing business near Dundee in Scotland, elaborated on how best to store the spuds.
Potatoes require a dark, dry place that is well-ventilated, which is why a netted bag or wicker basket is ideal.
The netted bag or wicker basket is best placed in a kitchen cupboard or cellar. “Exposure to light or moisture can bring on rotting in the skin,” the experts said.
This is why potatoes should not be washed before storing as moisture invites rotting and greening of the skin.
The experts stated: “Correctly storing your potatoes should see them lasting for several months.
“Be sure to keep checking up on them as any rotting can spread if they are close in contact with each other.” Any signs of rotting, turning green or sprouting potatoes should be disposed of.
Is it safe to eat sprouted spuds?
The Spruce Eats stated that sprouted spuds are still safe to eat as long as they’re firm to touch.
Wrinkly, shrivelled and soft potatoes, on the other hand, could contain toxins. Toxins such as solanine and chaconine may lead to headaches, vomiting and other digestive issues.
These toxins are most concentrated in the eyes, sprouts, and skin of the potatoes, but a lot would have to be eaten for it to make you sick.
