How to prevent potatoes from sprouting

The key to preventing potato germination is to control the temperature, humidity, and light in the storage environment. There are mainly methods such as low-temperature light storage, oxygen isolation, avoiding mechanical damage, regular inspections, and using natural sprout suppressants.

1. Low temperature and dark storage

Placing potatoes in a cool environment at 4-8 degrees Celsius can effectively inhibit germination. Excessive temperature can accelerate metabolism, while temperatures below 0 degrees Celsius may cause frostbite. It is ideal to wrap cellars, basements, or refrigerator compartments in paper bags to prevent moisture. At the same time, black plastic bags or opaque containers should be used to block light and avoid the activation of bud growth hormone by light exposure.

2. Isolate oxygen

Store in a vacuum sealed bag after evacuating the air, or store together with fruits such as apples and bananas that release ethylene. Ethylene gas can block the activity of alpha amylase in potatoes, but attention should be paid to the risk of fruit decay. Potatoes can also be buried in dry sandy soil, and the gaps between sand particles can reduce oxygen exposure.

III. Avoid mechanical damage

Handle potatoes with care during harvesting and transportation. Potatoes with damaged skin will release trauma hormones to stimulate germination. Remove individuals with scratches or cracks before storage, and cushion with soft cloth when stacking. Damaged areas are prone to mold infection, further accelerating the process of decay and germination.

Fourth, regular inspection

Check stored potatoes every two weeks and promptly remove individuals that have sprouted or have wrinkled skin. In the early stage of germination, the bud eye will protrude and turn green. At this time, the bud eye and surrounding tissues can be removed and consumed as soon as possible. Moldy potatoes can produce solanine toxin and should be discarded whole.

Fifth, use natural sprout suppressants [SEP]. Store aromatic plants such as mint leaves and laurel leaves in layers with potatoes, and their volatile components can delay germination. Spraying food grade talc powder thinly on the surface of potatoes can also form a protective film, but it is necessary to ensure that the talc powder is not contaminated with asbestos before use. It is not recommended to use chemical sprout suppressants to treat household stored ingredients.

In addition to the above methods, choosing late maturing varieties of potatoes when purchasing can extend the storage period, such as purple skinned potatoes that are more resistant to storage than yellow skinned potatoes. A small amount of potatoes can be cooked and frozen for storage, but the taste may deteriorate. Potatoes with severe sprouting are prohibited from consumption. The tissue within 1 centimeter of the sprout eye contains a high concentration of solanine, which may cause toxic reactions such as nausea and vomiting. Daily recommendations include purchasing as needed to avoid hoarding in large quantities.