How to Tell if Sweet Potatoes Are Bad?

Sweet potatoes are a delicious and nutritious root vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you like them baked, roasted, or mashed, sweet potatoes are a versatile addition to any meal.

But how can you tell if sweet potato is bad? Are there any signs you should look for before eating them?

Although it’s not very difficult, many people don’t know how to tell if sweet potatoes are bad. In this article, I’ll go over a few simple ways to tell if your sweet potatoes have gone bad.

How to Tell if Sweet Potatoes Are Bad?

The color of the flesh is dull and lifeless, there is discoloration around the edges of the potato, the skin is wrinkled or shriveled, the potato has developed soft spots or bruises, and the potato has begun to sprout.

If you see any of these signs, it’s best to throw away the sweet potato. Bad sweet potatoes can cause food poisoning, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Continue reading to learn more about each sign in detail.

1. Color

The color of sweet potatoes can give you an indication of whether they have gone bad. If the sweet potatoes have started to turn brown or black, they have gone bad and should not be eaten.

2. Soft Spots

Another sign that sweet potatoes have gone bad is the presence of soft spots on the surface of the potato. Bad spots on sweet potatoes are usually soft or mushy. They may also have darkened areas or bruising.

These soft spots are usually brown or black in color and indicate that the potato has begun to rot.

3. Mold

Mold is another sure sign that sweet potatoes have gone bad. Sweet potatoes are particularly susceptible to mold growth because of their high sugar content.

Mold can be any color but is usually green, black, or white. If you see any mold on sweet potatoes, throw them out immediately.

4. Texture

The texture of sweet potatoes can also be an indication of whether they are bad. If the sweet potatoes are mushy or have a slimy texture, they have gone bad and should not be eaten.

Moreover, if the sweet potatoes are mushy or crumbly, they have gone bad and should not be eaten.

Take a look at the skin. If the skin is wrinkled or shriveled, it’s a sign that the potato has been stored for too long and is no longer fresh.

5. Unpleasant Odor

If sweet potatoes have gone bad, they will usually emit an unpleasant odor. This odor will be different from the usual sweet potato smell and will be much more rank and offensive. If you notice an unpleasant odor coming from your sweet potatoes, throw them out.

6. Sprouts

Another sure sign that sweet potatoes have gone bad is the presence of sprouts. Sweet potatoes will begin to sprout when they are no longer fresh. The sprouts are small and green, and they come out of the potato where the eyes are located.

If you see sprouts on sweet potatoes, throw them out. They are no longer safe to eat.

If you notice any of these signs, it is best to throw out the sweet potatoes and purchase fresh ones. Sweet potatoes that have gone bad can cause food poisoning and should not be consumed.

How To Store Sweet Potatoes

How to Store Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated space and in a mesh bag.

If you have a surplus of sweet potatoes, you may be wondering how to store them so that they stay fresh and delicious. Here are a few tips for storing sweet potatoes:

First, sweet potatoes should be stored in a cool, dark place. A root cellar or basement is ideal, but a cupboard or pantry will also work. The key is to make sure the sweet potatoes are not exposed to light, as this can cause them to turn green and become bitter.

Second, sweet potatoes should be stored in a well-ventilated space. This will help to prevent them from Spoiling. Sweet potatoes can be stored in a mesh bag or basket, on a wire rack, or even in an open bowl. Just make sure they have plenty of airflows so that they do not become damp and moldy.

Sweet potatoes should not be stored in the fridge, as this will cause them to spoil more quickly. 

Finally, check on your sweet potatoes regularly and discard any that show signs of spoilage. With proper care, sweet potatoes can last for several weeks or even months. So enjoy them while they are fresh, and then store any extras for later.

Can You Freeze Sweet Potatoes?

Yes, sweet potatoes can be frozen. This is a good way to store them if you have too many to eat fresh. 

To freeze sweet potatoes, first, wash them and then peel them. Cut the sweet potatoes into slices, diced, or mashed. Then place them in an airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 6 months.

When you are ready to eat the frozen sweet potatoes, thaw them in the fridge overnight and then cook them as you would fresh sweet potatoes.

How Long Does Sweet Potatoes Last?

How Long Does Sweet Potatoes Last

Sweet potatoes can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to two months. Once they are cut, however, they should be used within a few days. To prolong their shelf life, sweet potatoes can be kept in the fridge, where they will last for up to a week.

When cooked, sweet potatoes will last for up to four days in the fridge. So, whether you’re storing them whole or cooked, make sure to use them within a month for the best flavor and quality.

Conclusion

Sweet potatoes are a nutritious and delicious addition to any diet. But like all food, they can go bad if they are not stored properly.

If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as mushiness, discoloration, or sprouts, it is best to discard the sweet potato.

I hope this article has helped you to understand how to tell if sweet potatoes are bad. Now that you know, make sure to store them properly so that they stay fresh and delicious.

I’m a passionate food blogger on a journey to become a go-to person who can help others prepare delicious foods. I share recipes, food substitutes, and other cooking tips. Read more about my journey...

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