Why do potatoes turn green? Does it become toxic?

Weather of Arabia - Potatoes are one of the most famous vegetables in the world, and one of the basic foodstuffs that go into preparing thousands of different dishes, but not everyone knows that potatoes, loved by many, may lead to health complications when they turn green, so what is the reason for potatoes to turn color Green and how dangerous? Is it necessary to get rid of the potatoes when the green spots appear on them?

Why do potatoes turn green?

When potatoes are exposed to direct sunlight, they naturally begin to turn green. The green color comes from chlorophyll, a harmless compound that gives plants their green color. Chlorophyll is necessary for photosynthesis, the process plants use to make their own food. Exposing potatoes to sunlight speeds up chlorophyll production, which is why it is important to store them in a dark area.

Are potatoes that appear green spots safe health?

According to the American Poison Center , green potatoes are not safe to eat, but not because of chlorophyll, but the appearance of green spots in potatoes indicates poor storage, which leads to high levels of "solanine", a chemical that potatoes naturally secrete to fight fungi and the insects that attack it.

Solanine is a toxic compound, high levels of which cause potatoes to taste bitter, and when consumed in large quantities, this compound can lead to digestive problems such as nausea and diarrhea, as well as headaches and neurological problems. Although you need to eat a large amount of green potatoes for these effects to start, it is best to follow the healthy rule when it comes to potatoes, which is: if you find them bitter, do not eat them.

How to deal with green potatoes so that they are not thrown away

Does turning green potatoes mean that the whole bag of potatoes should be discarded?!

Not quite.. If a small portion of the potato turns green, there is no need to throw out the whole potato. Simply cut the green part off and use the rest of the potatoes safely.

According to the USDA , it's also best to remove the skin from potatoes because more solanine can be found in the skin.

To prevent potatoes from turning green too early, they should always be kept and stored out of direct sunlight.

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