If you have been wondering whether green potatoes are edible or not, this is your chance to find out more.
Let’s say that you have been waiting all week to whip up those potatoes that you have stashed in the pantry. It’s a normal impulse, but it can cause people to make decisions that they are unsure about later on.
When you come across potatoes that have green spots on them, do not fret. This does not have to mean that your French fry dreams have to be over before they have even had the chance to start. We are here to provide you with a valuable explanation of the scientific aspect here so that you can make the best decisions for yourself and your loved ones.
After all, that is what it is all about. Potatoes actually turn green when they are exposed to sunlight and this is where things are going to start to sound familiar. For those who have not retained their middle school memories, chlorophyll is actually a harmless compound that is responsible for giving plants their green color. This is why they need to be stashed where it is dark.
This is where we get to the scary part for some. The National Capital Poison Center says that these potatoes are actually not safe to eat. Once the amount of chlorophyll has increased to the point where green spots are visible, this means that the compound solanine is also increasing.
The higher these levels get, the more dangerous the potatoes can become. In fact, they will typically have a far more bitter taste than expected and may lead to major health problems if they are consumed, such as nausea and diarrhea, as well as headaches and neurological problems.
If a small part of the potato has gone green, you are also able to slice this small part away and continue to use it. Bear that in mind before chucking them out!
And as always, it’s better to be safe than sorry. If you’re unsure about a potato’s quality or safety, it’s always better to err on the side of caution or consult an expert before consuming it.