Preservation methods for potatoes without sprouting

The main methods for storing potatoes without sprouting include avoiding light and drying, low temperature ventilation, air isolation, avoiding mixing, and regular inspection.

1. Avoid light and dry

Store potatoes in a cool and dark place, away from direct sunlight. Light accelerates potato germination and causes the skin to turn green, producing solanine. You can choose to wrap it in cardboard boxes or black plastic bags and place it in dimly lit environments such as cabinets or basements. The humidity of the storage environment should not be too high, as a humid environment can easily promote the growth of mold.

2. Low temperature ventilation

Potatoes are suitable for storage in an environment of 4-8 ℃ and can be placed in the vegetable and fruit compartment of the refrigerator. If stored at room temperature, it is necessary to ensure good ventilation and avoid the accumulation of water vapor in enclosed spaces. In winter, it can be placed on an unheated balcony. In summer, it is recommended to use a breathable bamboo basket to store it and maintain a certain gap with the wall to promote air circulation.

3. Isolate the air

Wrap the potatoes with clean gauze and place them in a sealed bag. After removing the air from the bag, tie the bag tightly. Potatoes can also be stored alternately in layers with dry fine sand, and the thickness of the sand layer should completely cover the potatoes. Vacuum sealing can effectively delay germination, but attention should be paid to checking the sealing to avoid condensation inside the bag.

4. Avoid mixing

Do not store together with fruits that release ethylene, such as apples and bananas. Ethylene can stimulate the division of potato bud eye cells. It is recommended to store it separately or with anti sprouting ingredients such as ginger and garlic. The sulfides released by onions also have an inhibitory effect on germination, and can be placed in layers but need to be regularly flipped to prevent mold growth.

5. Regular inspection

Check the status of potatoes every week and promptly remove individuals that have sprouted or have green skin. Slight germination can be consumed after digging the bud eyes deeply. If the bud length exceeds 2 centimeters or the epidermis turns green on a large area, it should be discarded. Handle with care during inspection to avoid mechanical damage caused by bumps and localized decay.

During storage, it can be paired with edible adjustments, prioritizing the consumption of potatoes with smaller volumes. Sprouted potatoes should not be consumed with bud eyes and surrounding tissues. Adding vinegar during cooking can partially decompose solanine. Long term storage is recommended to be divided into small portions to avoid repeated opening and closing of the packaging. If you need to store for more than two months, you can try blanching and freezing the peeled and diced potatoes. Blanch them in boiling water for 1 minute, then drain and freeze, but the taste may decrease. The recommended daily storage amount is two weeks of consumption, as fresh potatoes have higher nutritional value.