Is It Safe To Eat Sweet Potatoes That Have Sprouted

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Can You Eat Potatoes That Have Sprouted and Are Soft? Exploring the ...

Is It Safe to Eat Sweet Potatoes That Have Sprouted?

I recently found some sweet potatoes in my pantry that had sprouted. I was unsure if it was safe to eat them, so I did some research. Here’s what I found.

Sweet potatoes are a nutritious and versatile vegetable. They are a good source of fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C. However, when sweet potatoes sprout, they can produce a toxin called solanine. Solanine is a glycoalkaloid that can cause gastrointestinal distress, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, solanine poisoning can lead to neurological problems, such as hallucinations and seizures.

Is It Safe to Eat Sprouted Sweet Potatoes?

The amount of solanine in sprouted sweet potatoes varies depending on the variety of sweet potato and the storage conditions. Generally, the sprouts and the area around them contain the highest levels of solanine. If you are concerned about solanine, it is best to cut away the sprouts and any green or discolored areas before eating the sweet potato.

It is important to note that the solanine content in sprouted sweet potatoes is not always high enough to cause adverse effects. However, it is always better to err on the side of caution and remove the sprouts before eating.

Are There Any Benefits to Eating Sprouted Sweet Potatoes?

Some people believe that sprouted sweet potatoes have higher levels of nutrients than unsprouted sweet potatoes. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. In fact, some studies have shown that the nutrient content of sprouted sweet potatoes is actually lower than that of unsprouted sweet potatoes.

One potential benefit of eating sprouted sweet potatoes is that they may be easier to digest than unsprouted sweet potatoes. The sprouting process breaks down the starch in the sweet potato, making it easier for the body to absorb.

How to Store Sweet Potatoes

To prevent sweet potatoes from sprouting, store them in a cool, dark place with a relative humidity of around 85%. Avoid storing sweet potatoes in the refrigerator, as this can cause them to develop a bitter taste.

If you see any signs of sprouting, remove the sprouts and any green or discolored areas before eating the sweet potato.

FAQ

  • Can you eat the sprouts on sweet potatoes?

    It is not recommended to eat the sprouts on sweet potatoes, as they may contain high levels of solanine.

  • Are sprouted sweet potatoes safe for dogs?

    No, sprouted sweet potatoes are not safe for dogs. Solanine is toxic to dogs and can cause gastrointestinal distress, neurological problems, and even death.

  • How can you tell if a sweet potato has gone bad?

    Signs of a bad sweet potato include sprouting, green or discolored areas, and a soft or mushy texture.

Conclusion

So, is it safe to eat sweet potatoes that have sprouted? The answer is yes, but it is important to remove the sprouts and any green or discolored areas before eating.

If you are concerned about solanine, you can also choose to eat unsprouted sweet potatoes. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that sprouted sweet potatoes have higher levels of nutrients than unsprouted sweet potatoes.

Are you interested in learning more about sweet potatoes?

Can You Eat Sprouted Sweet Potatoes? - The Wonderful World of Sprouts
Image: thewonderfulworldofsprouts.com

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