When potatoes sprout, the starch is converted into solanine and chaconine-alpha, two substances that can be toxic to humans.
Some people think that it is safe to eat sprouted potatoes, while others think that potato sprouts can be deadly. Here are the warning signs that sprout potatoes have undergone chemical reactions and are no longer safe to eat.
How do potatoes sprout poison?
When a potato is too old, the starches in the potato are converted into sugars. This sugar is converted into alkaloids called solanine and chaconine-alpha. The alkaloids are usually concentrated in the stems, leaves, and sprouts of potatoes, as well as in the green skin of the tubers. The amount of alkaloids depends on the storage conditions and the age of the potatoes.
If the tubers have green skin and sprout when purchased, this potato can poison you. Potatoes should be peeled to ensure that the starch in the potatoes has not been converted into toxic alkaloids and that the potatoes are safe. It is best not to eat this potato.
Ảnh minh họa: Stylecraze.com.
Symptoms of potato poisoning
Potato poisoning can happen if you eat the green skin on the tubers or the sprouts. If eaten in small amounts, the solanine and alpha-chaconine in potatoes cause mild gastrointestinal problems such as abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea. The more severe the poisoning, the more severe and painful the symptoms will be. You may experience serious neurological problems along with digestive problems such as delirium, diarrhea, dilated pupils, fever, hallucinations, headache, shock, hypothermia, paralysis, slowness. sluggishness, slowed breathing, abdominal pain, poor vision, vomiting…
Recovery time from potato poisoning depends on the amount of alkaloids as well as the level of treatment and medical help. Symptoms of potato poisoning can last 1-3 days. Hospitalization and even death from potato poisoning have been reported, although very rare.
How to avoid potato poisoning
Potato poisoning can be easily avoided by storing it properly, eating it soon after it’s purchased, and peeling and removing the green sprouts. Potatoes that are soft, old, and sprouted should not be eaten.
Choose potatoes that are still solid, firm, and germ-free when bought at markets or supermarkets.
Potatoes sprout with warmth, moisture, and light. Therefore, you should store unwashed potatoes in a cool, dark, dry place if you can’t eat them right away.
Place the potatoes in a well-ventilated and moisture-free container.
The way potatoes are cooked also determines the concentration of solanine and chaconine-alpha. The best way to reduce these toxins is to fry at high temperature (170 degrees Celsius).
If you accidentally ingest poisonous potatoes, see your doctor right away.
Quynh Trang (according to Stylecraze.com)