Potatoes are one of those staple foods that we can’t help but stockpile. They last for weeks—sometimes months—but eventually, they start to soften. You’ve probably opened the pantry to find a bag of potatoes that are no longer firm, and you may be wondering, “
Are they still good?” Well, the answer is a bit tricky! Let’s dive into when soft potatoes are okay to use, and when they’ve reached the point of no return. By the end, you’ll be able to tell if those spuds are worth keeping or should be tossed. Let’s dig in!
Why Do Potatoes Become Soft?
Potatoes soften over time due to a natural aging process. They lose moisture, which causes them to become less firm and shriveled. This happens to all potatoes, whether they’re stored for a few weeks or a few months. But the rate at which they soften can depend on several factors:
- Storage Conditions: Potatoes kept in a warm or humid environment will soften faster than those stored in a cool, dry place.
- Potato Variety: Different potato varieties have varying shelf lives. For instance, russets (a starchy type) generally last longer than waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes.
- Sprouting and Softness: Potatoes often sprout as they age. While the sprouts themselves aren’t dangerous, they indicate that the potato is getting old. You can easily remove the sprouts, but the softness means it’s closer to its expiration date.
When Are Soft Potatoes Still Safe to Eat?
Despite the natural softening process, soft potatoes are still edible in many cases. Here are some signs to look for when soft potatoes are still safe to eat:
- Slightly Soft but Firm Inside: If the potato feels soft on the outside but is still firm when you cut into it, it’s probably fine. You can peel away any soft or shriveled skin, and the flesh inside should still be good for cooking.
- Small Sprouts Are Okay: It’s common for potatoes to sprout after some time. Small sprouts are not harmful, as long as you remove them before eating. Just make sure to discard any green spots, which contain solanine.
- Proper Storage: If the potato has been stored in a cool, dark place (like a pantry) and doesn’t have any strange smells or colors, it’s safe to eat. Potatoes stored properly can last much longer than those kept in the fridge or exposed to heat.
- No Green Color: A potato that has a greenish tint should be avoided, as that’s a sign of solanine buildup, which can cause nausea or headaches. If there’s no green, and the potato still feels firm, it’s generally safe.
Signs That Soft Potatoes Are No Longer Safe to Eat
Even though soft potatoes can often be saved, there are times when they’ve gone beyond the point of no return. Here’s when it’s best to toss them:
- Mushy and Squishy Texture: If the potato is so soft that it feels mushy or squishy when you press it, it’s likely spoiled. You should also avoid any potato that is leaking moisture or looks waterlogged.
- Green Color and Bitter Taste: Green patches are a sign of solanine, which makes the potato bitter and unsafe to eat in large amounts. If the potato has turned green and soft, it’s best to throw it away.
- Off Smell: Fresh potatoes have an earthy smell. If you notice a sour or rotten odor, it’s a clear sign that the potato has gone bad and should be discarded.
- Excessive Sprouting: While small sprouts are okay, large, thick sprouts or multiple sprouts are a sign the potato is far too old and likely not worth eating anymore.
How to Store Potatoes to Prevent Softness
Proper storage is key to extending the shelf life of potatoes and preventing them from softening too quickly. Here are some tips to ensure your potatoes last longer:
- Keep Them in a Cool, Dark Place: The ideal storage temperature for potatoes is between 45-50°F (7-10°C). A cool pantry or cupboard is perfect, as long as it’s away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid Refrigeration: While it may seem like refrigerating potatoes would prolong their life, it actually causes the starch in potatoes to convert to sugar. This can lead to an off-sweet flavor and a change in texture. The best storage option is a pantry, not the fridge.
- Proper Ventilation: Potatoes need airflow to stay fresh. Keep them in a well-ventilated space, such as a mesh bag or a breathable cardboard box, to prevent excess moisture from building up.
- Don’t Store with Onions: Onions and potatoes should never be stored together. The gases emitted by onions can cause potatoes to sprout or spoil more quickly.
Conclusion
So, can you eat soft potatoes? Yes, but with a few caveats. Soft potatoes are usually still fine to eat if they haven’t developed green spots, off smells, or excessive mushiness. Just remember to remove any soft or sprouted parts before cooking.
And if you’re storing them at home, keeping them in a cool, dry place is key to prolonging their shelf life. Now, you don’t have to stress about soft potatoes anymore! Just give them a quick check, and if they pass the test, cook away!