How to Tell If Your Potatoes Are Poisonous

Okay, confession time. I used to be the type of person who kept potatoes for way too long. I’m talking months. Maybe even longer. I figured, hey, they don’t really go bad like other veggies, right? They just sit there, waiting to be turned into fries or mashed goodness.

Well… turns out, that’s not entirely true. I learned the hard way that potatoes can actually become poisonous. Yep, you read that right—those innocent spuds sitting in your pantry could make you sick. And if you don’t know what to look for, you might end up cooking a toxic meal without even realizing it.

When Your Potatoes Go from Safe to Sketchy

Potatoes contain a natural toxin called solanine. It’s a built-in defense mechanism against pests, but if solanine levels get too high, it can cause nausea, headaches, and—if you really overdo it—something a lot worse. But don’t freak out just yet. Most potatoes are totally fine. You just need to know when to not eat them.

So, what are the signs your potatoes could be poisonous? Let’s get into it.

1. They’ve Turned Green

If your potato has a weird greenish tint, don’t ignore it. That’s a clear sign it’s been exposed to too much light, which causes it to produce more solanine. A little green? You might be able to cut it off. But if the whole thing is looking like the Grinch, toss it. Not worth the risk.

2. Sprouts? Not a Good Sign

I used to think those little sprouts were no big deal. Just break them off and keep cooking, right? Wrong. Sprouting means your potato is producing more solanine and another toxin called chaconine—both of which can make you sick. Small sprouts? Maybe salvageable. But if your potato looks like it’s trying to grow arms? Get rid of it.

3. Wrinkly and Shriveled = Time to Say Goodbye

A fresh potato should feel firm. If it’s soft, wrinkled, or looking like it’s been through a rough breakup, that’s a problem. When potatoes dry out, their chemical makeup changes, and solanine levels can rise. Plus, let’s be real… who wants to eat a sad, wrinkly potato anyway?

4. A Funky Smell

Potatoes don’t have much of a smell when they’re fresh. So, if you pick one up and it stinks? That’s bacteria and rot at work. A musty, sour, or just off smell means your potato has officially gone bad. Do not—I repeat, do not—try to cook it.

5. It’s Mushy or Leaking

You ever pick up a potato and it feels kinda… wet? Or maybe it’s turned into some weird mushy mess? Yeah, that’s your cue to let it go. A potato that’s breaking down like that is not something you want anywhere near your plate.

How to Keep Your Potatoes Fresh Longer

Alright, now that we know what not to eat, let’s talk about how to keep your potatoes from going bad too soon. Because nobody likes wasting food.

Store them in a cool, dark place. Heat and light speed up solanine production. A pantry or cupboard is best—just don’t leave them sitting out on the counter.
Don’t put them in the fridge. I know, I know—it seems like it would help. But cold temps actually turn the starches into sugar, which messes with their taste and texture.
Use them within a few weeks. Potatoes don’t last forever. If you’ve had them for a while, check for those warning signs before cooking.
Keep them dry. Moisture speeds up spoilage. Store them in a breathable bag or a basket instead of a sealed plastic one.

Look, I love potatoes as much as anyone. Fries? Amazing. Mashed? Yes, please. But knowing when they’ve gone bad is important. A little green or a tiny sprout might be okay if you cut it off, but if your potatoes are sprouting like crazy, smelling weird, or feeling mushy, just toss them.