Is the area where potatoes are recessed sprouting

The area where potatoes are recessed does not necessarily indicate sprouting, it may be bud eyes or natural growth marks. If green sprouts or obvious protrusions appear in the depression, it belongs to germination phenomenon. Sprouted potatoes may contain solanine, which poses a safety risk when consumed.

The concave surface of potatoes is mostly a bud eye structure, which is a characteristic part of natural potato growth. Sprouts are residual tissues after the degeneration of potato stem nodes, usually presenting as circular or elliptical depressions. The sprout eyes of fresh potatoes are smooth and dry, with a color consistent with the skin, and there is no soft or rotten feeling when touched. When the storage environment temperature is too high or the light is too strong, the bud eye will break through the epidermis and form new shoots. At this time, the concave part will be accompanied by a green bud protrusion, and wrinkles or discoloration may appear around the bud.

Some varieties of potatoes naturally have deep bud eye indentations, especially at the junction of the tubers. This physiological depression has smooth edges and intact epidermis without damage. If stored for more than three months, even if there is no obvious germination, the depression may still form dry texture due to water loss. Attention should be paid to distinguishing dents caused by mechanical damage, which have irregular edges and are often accompanied by oxidized and blackened wounds.

It is recommended to choose fresh potatoes with flat bud eyes and intact skin, and store them in a cool and ventilated place. If sprouting or greening parts are found, the surrounding tissues should be immediately cut off by more than two centimeters. High temperature cooking can partially decompose solanine. gastrointestinal sensitive individuals, pregnant women, and children should avoid consuming potatoes that have been stored for too long. If they experience symptoms of poisoning such as numbness and nausea, they should seek medical attention promptly.