11 Feb, 2024 @ 08:00
1 min read

Why you should NEVER eat potatoes with growths on them, according to health experts

potato

HEALTH specialists have issued a warning against consuming potatoes that have sprouted – that is if you do not want to be struck down by diarrhoea, vomiting and mental confusion.

The caution comes in light of recent findings which highlight the potential dangers of potatoes when  naturally occurring toxins found in sprouting potatoes are consumed excessively.

It could be bad news for potato lovers and the potato, long a staple in Spanish cuisine since it was brought back from Peru by the first conquistadors.

Potatoes are known for their versatility and nutritional benefits, including high fibre, vitamins, and minerals, generally pose no safety concerns. 

However, they also contain a number of naturally occurring chemical compounds known as glycoalkaloids.

Some of these are toxic to humans – specifically solanine and chaconine – and can cause health problems in high concentrations, according to poisoning specialist Diana M. Pei.

While normal levels of these toxins are not harmful, an excess can cause symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain, irregular bowel movements, diarrhoea, headache, mental confusion, flushing, and even fever.

potatoes e
Health experts are warning against eating potatoes that have sprouted

The Spanish Consumer Organization (OCU) has also highlighted the health risks associated with consuming sprouted potatoes.

The concentration of glycoalkaloids is notably higher in the leaves, flowers, green skins, and sprouts of the potato plant. 

Sprouts indicate that the toxin levels have become dangerously high, meaning the potato is unsafe to eat.

Other factors, such as physical damage, low storage temperatures, or exposure to bright light, can also increase toxin levels. 

It’s important to note that cooking potatoes, whether by baking, boiling, frying, or microwaving, does not eliminate these glycoalkaloids.

A noticeable green tint on the potato’s skin can also indicate a high level of toxins. 

If sprouts or a greenish hue are present, it is advised to either remove the sprouts or throw the potato away entirely.

To avoid potential health issues, experts recommend purchasing potatoes close to the time of cooking, thoroughly inspecting them for sprouts and green skins, storing them in a cool, dark place, and peeling them before eating. 

When in doubt, it’s safer to throw them away.

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Walter Finch

Walter Finch, who comes from a background in video and photography, is keen on reporting on and investigating organised crime, corruption and abuse of power. He is fascinated by the nexus between politics, business and law-breaking, as well as other wider trends that affect society.
Born in London but having lived in six countries, he is well-travelled and worldly. He studied Philosophy at the University of Birmingham and earned his diploma in journalism from London's renowned News Associates during the Covid era.
He got his first break in the business working on the Foreign News desk of the Daily Mail's online arm, where he also helped out on the video desk.
He then decided to escape the confines of London and returned to Spain in 2022, having previously lived in Barcelona for many years.
He took up up a reporter role with the Olive Press Newspaper and today he is based in La Linea de la Concepcion at the heart of a global chokepoint and crucial maritime hub, where he edits the Olive Press Gibraltar edition.
He is also the deputy news editor across all editions of the newspaper.

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