Can You Eat Sprouted Sweet Potatoes That Have Been Stored for a Long Time?

If sweet potatoes are stored for too long or in a humid environment, they can easily sprout. So, can you eat sprouted sweet potatoes that have been stored for a long time?

 

 

Are Sprouted Sweet Potatoes Safe to Eat?

Sweet potatoes are highly nutritious and commonly included in healthy diets, especially for those looking to lose weight. Because they are consumed frequently, many people buy them in bulk. However, improper storage in humid conditions can cause them to sprout, raising concerns about their safety and potential health risks.

According to nutrition expert Nguyễn Mộc Lan, among root vegetables, only sprouted potatoes are considered toxic. Sprouted potatoes produce solanine, a highly toxic compound that can cause stomach irritation, hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells), and nervous system paralysis. Normal cooking methods cannot eliminate this toxin, and simply cutting off the green areas around the sprouts does not ensure safety.

On the other hand, sprouted sweet potatoes are not inherently toxic unless they have been affected by mold. Moldy sweet potatoes produce ipomeamarone, a toxin that gives them a bitter taste. If a sweet potato shows signs of spoilage, it should be discarded.

From a nutritional perspective, sprouted sweet potatoes lose a significant amount of vitamins and minerals, and their taste and texture deteriorate. While the sprouts themselves are not harmful, prolonged storage, especially in humid conditions, often leads to mold growth, which results in black or brown spots on the tubers. At this stage, they accumulate ipomeamarone, posing serious health risks. Moldy sweet potatoes develop an unpleasant odor and a bitter taste.

Conclusion

You have every reason to discard sprouted sweet potatoes:

• They lose their flavor and nutritional value.
• They carry a high risk of toxin contamination.

If you still want to use sprouted sweet potatoes, only consume those that have just started sprouting and do not have any black or brown spots.

How to Properly Store Sweet Potatoes

To extend the shelf life of sweet potatoes, follow these storage tips:

• Choose fresh, firm sweet potatoes without bruises, cracks, or dark spots. Medium-sized tubers are ideal, as they tend to store better.
• Store them in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. Avoid wrapping them in plastic bags, as this can trap moisture and promote sprouting.
• Do not refrigerate sweet potatoes. The cold temperature can alter their texture and flavor, causing the skin to dry out and wrinkle.
• At a temperature of around 21°C (70°F), sweet potatoes can last 1 to 2 weeks before naturally beginning to sprout.
• At higher temperatures, they will sprout more quickly. However, if stored at 12-14°C (54-57°F), sprouting can be delayed.

By following these storage methods, you can keep sweet potatoes fresh for longer and avoid the risks associated with sprouting and mold growth.