FOOD NEWS
Don't Automatically Toss Out Potatoes With Soft Spots
BY SIMONE GERBER
Finding soft spots on your potatoes can be disappointing, but there’s no need to despair, as they’re still perfectly safe to eat. The spots are the result of dehydration.
Potatoes dehydrate naturally over time once harvested. When separated from the rest of the plant, they start preparing to sprout, a process that uses the potatoes’ stored moisture.
Since potatoes are about 80% water, this dehydration will cause them to lose volume in spots, resulting in spongy indents. These indents don’t affect flavor or texture.
These soft spots can be cut off if you prefer, but it’s not necessary. The potato should only be thrown away if it is mushy, has visible black coloring, or smells rotten.
To avoid these soft spots and other forms of spoilage, store potatoes in a dark, cool, and dry place (like the pantry or basement). This way, they can last for several months.