Potatoes stand among many vegetables and fruits. They are a staple food in Australian households but storing them improperly can affect their taste and nutrients. It is vital to follow effective storage strategies for storing potatoes. Let’s learn how to store potatoes, some mistakes that should be avoided, and tips for enhancing their service life.
Why proper potato storage matters
It is essential to store potatoes properly to maintain their freshness, taste, and nutrients for weeks or even months. The following issues can occur due to poor storage of potatoes:
- Rotting: Rotting is a biological condition in which many fungi and bacteria cause decay in potato tubers. Excessive moisture or inappropriate ventilation can also cause mould or decay.
- Sprouting: Sprouting of potatoes means that they grow shoots or eyes from their surface. They develop them when exposed to heat or moisture.
- Greening: Potatoes become green when exposed to light. In this way, they become bitter and potentially toxic because of the solanine compound.
By knowing these risks, you should store your potatoes in an environment that keeps them fresh.
How to store potatoes
Consider the following strategies to store potatoes in an optimal condition:
1. Selection of storage environment
The storage temperature or environment matters a lot to preserve the potatoes.
- Cool and dry places: Keep potatoes in a dark and cool place. The temperature should be in the middle of 7°C (45°F) and 10°C (50°F). The right places to keep potatoes include a cellar, storeroom, or cupboard that is away from direct sunlight.
- Not refrigerated: Avoid storing potatoes in the refrigerator. A temperature below 4°C can convert the starch of the potato into sugar, which will affect their taste and appearance.
2. Proper ventilation
Potatoes should be kept in proper ventilation such as:
- Oxygen-rich containers: Utilize containers that permit the circulation of air. You can use paper bags, cardboard boxes, or mesh bags for this purpose. Avoid plastic bags as they trap moisture and limit the airflow which will cause spoilage of potatoes.
3. Maintain humidity levels
The humidity levels should be maintained appropriately. The perfect humidity level is about 80% to 90%. Consider dry environments to keep potatoes to prevent moisture from spreading. Avoid washing potatoes before storing them; rather dismiss the excess dirt. Before using potatoes, wash them.
4. Separate from ethylene producers
Keep the potatoes away from the other fruits or vegetables that produce ethylene gas. These ethylene producers include apples, bananas, pears, and even onions. When they ripen, they release ethylene gas which accelerates the sprouting and spoilage of potatoes.
5. Check stored potatoes regularly
Inspect your stored potatoes routinely. If you observe sprouting, rotting or softness in any potato, separate it from the others as it can also damage them. A quick reminder; you can use the sprouted potato if the sprouts on it are too small and the potato is still fresh, firm, and not green.
Storing different types of potatoes
There is a slight difference in storing various varieties of potatoes:
- Sweet potatoes: Even though sweet potatoes are not true potatoes, they require warmer conditions for storage, preferably at 13°C to 16°C ( 55 to 60°F).
- New potatoes: New potatoes have a narrow skin and are more fragile. It’s best to use them within a few weeks of buying.
- Brown and white potatoes: Brown and white potatoes should be stored in a dark and cool environment properly. If they are kept dry and ventilated, they can withstand for many weeks.
Tips for long-term storage
Follow these further tips if you want to store potatoes for a longer period:
- Don’t wash before storage: Avoid washing potatoes before storing them as washing them would lead to rotting them by adding moisture. Just ensure brush off extra dirt from them and wash them before using.
- Examine and resolve regularly: Check the stored potatoes routinely. Separate any damaged or sprouted potatoes to prevent them from affecting the rest.
- Stockpile areas: Place newspapers or straws in the storage containers to absorb humidity and maintain a secure environment.
How to store cooked potatoes
If you have cooked many potatoes and want to store them, store them in the following way to maintain their freshness for future food:
- Refrigerate in 2 hours: Place cooked potatoes in an air-tight container and keep them in a fridge. They can stand up for 3 to 4 days.
- Freeze for prolonged storage: Roasted or mashed potatoes should freeze properly. Maintain their freshness by storing them in the fridge for three months.
Dealing with green or sprouted potatoes
Many people wonder about what to do with green or sprouting potatoes. Here’s what you need to know:
Dealing with green potatoes
There is a higher amount of solanine in the green potatoes which can be the reason for bitter flavour and stomach pain. If you find any small area of a potato is green, cut it carefully before use. Discard the excessively green potatoes completely.
Handling sprouting potatoes
It is safe to use potatoes that have small sprouts, simply remove the sprouts before cooking them. However, throw away the potatoes which have long sprouts or feel soft.
Common errors to avoid
Here is the information about some common errors that should be avoided:
- Exposure to sunlight: Direct sunlight contributes to the greening or sprouting of potatoes. Always use shaded areas to keep the potatoes safe.
- Store in the fridge: Avoid keeping potatoes in the fridge as it can badly affect the quality of potatoes by changing their glucose content.
- Keeping damp potatoes: Moisture is harmful to keeping potatoes fresh. Before storing the potatoes, make sure they are dry.
Final thoughts
Knowing how to store potatoes is important for every Australian. Proper storage not only helps you enjoy better flavours but also saves money and reduces waste. By keeping potatoes in a dark, cool, and ventilated environment, avoiding moisture, and routinely inspecting for spoilage, you can extend their shelf life. Fresh potatoes are versatile and enhance any dish, so take proper care to store them correctly.
