KOMPAs.com – Buying fresh potatoes in large quantities can be more economical than buying retail.
Raw potatoes are also very versatile, nutritious, and can be stored for quite a long time. However, storing potatoes in the refrigerator is not a good choice.
Fresh potatoes are the main ingredient in many delicious dishes, such as creamy mashed potatoes to french fries.
Reasons not to store potatoes in the refrigerator
However, storing raw potatoes in the refrigerator can actually damage their quality. Here are the reasons why you shouldn’t store potatoes in the refrigerator and the right way to store them.
Also read: Dried Potato Recipe with Simple Spices
1. Changes the taste and texture of potatoes
Storing potatoes in cold temperatures can change their taste and texture because the sugar content in the potatoes changes. Enzymes in potatoes will convert natural sucrose into glucose and fructose.
This change makes the potato taste sweeter and the texture becomes rough, which can ruin the taste of your dish.
2. Forms cancer-triggering compounds
Potatoes that are stored in the refrigerator and cooked at high temperatures, such as when baked or fried, can form dangerous chemical compounds, namely acrylamide.
This compound is produced from the reaction between glucose, fructose and the amino acid asparagine at high temperatures.
Acrylamide itself is also found in cigarettes, building materials and other products. Research shows that acrylamide may cause cancer, especially kidney, endometrial, and ovarian cancer.
The best way to store potatoes
To keep your potatoes fresh and safe to consume, here’s how to store potatoes properly:
1. Check the potatoes for damage
Inspect fresh potatoes to make sure none are damaged by pests or disease.
Faulty potatoes should be cut and cooked immediately, while perfect ones can be stored longer.
Also read: 4 Healthiest Ways to Cook Potatoes, There is Boiling
2. Use appropriate containers
Store potatoes in cardboard boxes, paper bags, mesh bags, or baskets that allow air circulation. Avoid plastic because it can make potatoes rot quickly.
3. Store in a cool, damp and dark place
The ideal storage temperature for potatoes is between 7-10 degrees Celsius, warmer than refrigerator temperature but cooler than room temperature.
4. Avoid bright light
Light can make potatoes change color to green due to chlorophyll production. This green color indicates the presence of glycoalkaloids, compounds that are dangerous in large amounts and can cause poisoning if consumed.
Illustration of the dangers of potatoes for people with kidney disease.5. Keep away from onions
Potatoes and onions should not be stored side by side because onions emit ethylene gas which can speed up potato rot. On the other hand, the moisture in the potatoes can cause the onions to rot quickly.
6. Check regularly
Check potatoes periodically and throw away any that look rotten or wrinkled to prevent it from spreading to other potatoes.
Also read: Recipe for Potato Carrot Croquettes Filled with Chicken, Suitable as a Side Dish for Lunch
If the potato has sprouted, it is still safe to eat as long as the texture is still firm. Make sure to remove the buds before cooking.
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