The potato is one of the most consumed foods in the world, especially in developing countries. They are an inexpensive staple that is also rich in vitamins and minerals. The downside is that they tend to spoil quickly at room temperature.
Therefore, it is important to know how to store potatoes so that they do not deteriorate quickly. The best way to store potatoes is to freeze them. This helps them stay fresh longer and keeps them from getting too old and starchy. However, most people prefer to keep them cool for easier handling.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best ways to store potatoes at home.
How to store potatoes at home
Freeze them for a long time
The best way to store potatoes is to cut them into small pieces and put them in a freezer bag. Some people prefer to open the potatoes and wrap them in foil before sealing the bag. This method can be a bit more efficient, but it also tends to be a messier form of storage and creates a lot of waste.
Forget the fridge
It is not recommended to keep potatoes in the refrigerator to consume them several weeks later, since the starch can undergo changes which modify the gastronomic properties of the potato.
With temperatures below 5 ºC, the starch present in the potato is transformed into glucose and fructose by enzymatic action. When you go to use them you will notice that they are a little softer and with a much sweeter flavor.
However, it is harmless, and in case you want to extend its shelf life beyond dry storage and aren’t so concerned about flavor alteration, this method may work for you. .
Best place to store potatoes: dry, cool and dark environment
The best place to store fresh potatoes is in a pantry, drawer or cabinet. clean, cool, dry and dark. The ideal storage temperature is 8-10 ºC, a range difficult to obtain at home, except for some rural houses that have a basement or rooms prepared for the storage of food (such as game products, cheeses , etc.)
However, unless we have a specific refrigerator (like those for wine), the temperature at which we will store them, without major problems, is that of the house, 18-22 ºC.
Store potatoes in a cool, dark place. helps preserve color and prevent browning. If you plan to store potatoes at home, make sure they are in a cool, dark place.
What is the shelf life of a fresh potato?
Potatoes can be stored for 3 to 4 weeks in a cool, dark place. Indeed, they are rich in starch, which prevents them from spoiling during transport. In winter, with lower house temperatures, storage is extended for another 1-2 weeks, on the contrary, in summer.
How to store peeled potatoes
One of the best ways to long term storage of potatoes is to peel them. Indeed, the skin can be peeled and the potato can be stored frozen or immersed in a prepared liquid, such as a can. Just peel the potatoes before you put them in the freezer, and they’ll keep their freshness longer. To freeze peeled potatoes, place them in a container and put them in the freezer.
Once frozen, wrap each potato individually in plastic or foil and store in a bag or box until ready to use at home. You can also prepare a large batch of peeled potatoes, then put individual packets in the freezer for a continuous supply without having to thaw them first.
How do you know if potatoes are rotten or spoiled?
Potatoes are tubers that They support transport and storage very well.. Also, your skin is a great indicator that there may be something wrong on the inside.
If we detect soft-touch brown spots on the surface or the appearance of sprouts, the potato begins the process of decomposition. However, this does not mean that it cannot be used if we discard the affected parts. When exposed to light, they usually form green spots, but they can still be eaten if we discard this part.
In case they have exposed to wet conditions, fungus or mold will most likely grow on its surface. Therefore, it is better to throw them away.
If you detect a slight rotten smell, they have released juice, or the touch is very soft, it is best to throw it away.
Presence of toxic substances
The storage conditions of potatoes at home have a direct influence on the production of solanine and others glycoalkaloids, compounds toxic to the body in large quantities (more than 1 mg per kilo of body weight per day). The sprouted potatoes or those that turn green or experience mechanical shock and injury, will likely have a higher concentration of these toxic elements.
In any case, the ideal is to remove the affected parts or, in case of doubt, to throw away the whole potato.
Anti-sprout products for preserving potatoes
At the industrial level, some formulations significantly reduce sprouting in potatoes. Indeed, in recent years, residue-free or low-impact solutions have been found, such as peppermint oil. And it is that, since 01/01/2021, chlorpropham (antigerminant for potatoes) is prohibited.
At the household level, there are alternatives that avoid sprouting for a few extra days. Most of them are easy to find in online stores or garden centers in your city.