In this brief article, we answer the question “Can you eat green potatoes?” We will also discuss why potatoes turn green and how to make use of green potatoes.
Can you eat green potatoes?
No, you should not eat green potatoes. Potatoes can contain solanine, a toxin that can be harmful to humans when eaten in large amounts. Green potatoes contain higher levels of solanine than potatoes with normal skin color, so they should not be eaten.
Symptoms of solanine poisoning include nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and headaches. In severe cases, it can cause paralysis, coma, and even death. For this reason, it is best to avoid eating green potatoes.
Why do potatoes turn green?
Potatoes turn green when they are exposed to light for an extended time. This is because potatoes contain chlorophyll, which is the same pigment that gives plants their green color.
When potatoes are exposed to light, the chlorophyll absorbs the light energy and uses it in a process called photosynthesis. During photosynthesis, chlorophyll combines light energy with carbon dioxide and water to create sugars.
These sugars are then used as energy for the potato to grow. When the chlorophyll is exposed to light for too long, it begins to break down and the green color is visible. The amount of time it takes for potatoes to turn green varies depending on the type of potato and the amount of light exposure.
Some potatoes may turn green in a matter of days, while others may take weeks or months. Additionally, some potatoes are more resistant to turning green than others. For example, potatoes with a high sugar content are more likely to turn green quickly than potatoes with a lower sugar content.
How can you prevent potatoes from turning green?
- Store potatoes in a cool, dark place. Potatoes should be stored in a cool, dark place with temperatures between 45 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit and relative humidity of 85 to 90 percent.
- Keep potatoes away from light. Light causes potatoes to turn green, so it is important to store them in a dark place.
- Avoid storing potatoes near other fruits and vegetables. Apples and other fruits produce ethylene gas, which can cause potatoes to turn green.
- Do not store potatoes in the refrigerator. Potatoes should be stored at room temperature, not in the refrigerator, as cold temperatures can cause potatoes to turn green.
- Check potatoes regularly. Check potatoes regularly for signs of greening, discoloration, or spoilage, and discard any potatoes that have turned green or have an off odor.
How can you make use of green potatoes?
One way to make use of green potatoes is to roast them. Cut the potatoes into cubes or slices and add some oil, salt, pepper, and herbs of your choice.
Place them on a baking sheet and roast them in a preheated oven at 425°F for about 30 minutes, or until they are tender and golden brown. Serve them as a side dish or as a potato salad.
Another way to make use of green potatoes is to make mashed potatoes. Peel the potatoes and cut them into chunks. Boil them in salted water until they are soft, then mash them with butter, milk, and seasoning of your choice. If you like, you can add some cheese or herbs.
Serve them as a side dish or use them as a base for other dishes such as shepherd’s pie or potato cakes. You can also use green potatoes to make potato soup.
Conclusion
In this brief article, we have answered the question “Can you eat green potatoes?” We have also discussed why potatoes turn green and how to prevent potatoes from turning green.
Hope you find this article helpful, in case of any questions, please let us know.
