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Frequently Asked Questions

Are sweet potatoes with green sprouts still safe to eat?

Sweet potatoes are botanically unrelated to the common potato. Potatoes are part of the nightshade family while Sweet Potatoes are cousins of the morning-glory. They do not produce the toxic solanine. Nevertheless it is recommended to store them in a cool and dry place for up to one month, or use within one week if stored at room temperature. If refrigerated, their natural sugar will turn to starch and ruin the flavour. The common potato is a member of the nightshade family (Solanaceae) and should always be stored in a dark cool place and kept away from light. Potatoes may turn green when exposed to light. To be safe, any green part on the potato, including any growths, should be cut away before using. Do not eat green potatoes or the leaves or stems, they contain solanine, a toxic alkaloidal glycoside. Besides, solanine is not destroyed when green potatoes are cooked.

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Source: European Food Information Council

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