Storing potatoes next to a single apple can stop them from sprouting and extend their shelf life, according to Courtenay Hartford, founder of Creekline House. The method involves simply placing an apple in the bag of potatoes and keeping it in a cool, dark place.
Potatoes are the most wasted food item in British homes, with 2.9 million discarded every day. They often go to waste because households store them incorrectly, causing them to sprout prematurely and turn unpleasant-smelling and decomposing.
How the apple trick works
Courtenay said: "So here's what you do: Open your bag of potatoes. Toss in an apple. Store it in a cool, dark place away from sunlight as you usually would. That's it! That one little apple can prevent an entire ten-pound bag of potatoes from starting to sprout all by itself. In my experience, the variety of apple doesn't make a difference, and neither does the type of potato."
Potatoes deteriorate prematurely when exposed to light or moisture, which can trigger hormonal shifts. Keeping them in the wrong location can stimulate the potato eyes, which are dormant buds. These buds can develop into sprouts, causing the potato to release solanine, a chemical that renders potatoes toxic, or turn them green.
Apples release ethylene gas, a plant hormone most fruits emit to assist ripening. When kept near potatoes, this gas can interfere with the plant hormones responsible for triggering sprouting, helping keep them fresher for longer.
Other storage tips
While apples can help slow sprouting, the only guaranteed way to keep potatoes fresh is to store them in the correct spot. Potatoes should never be subjected to heat or direct sunlight, so they should not be placed near hot ovens, air fryers or windows.
It is also advisable to keep potatoes away from other vegetables, particularly onions and garlic, as these release excess moisture that can cause potatoes to rot prematurely.
The best way to store potatoes is somewhere dark, dry and cool, such as a pantry or a low-level cupboard near the floor, as a higher cupboard may be subjected to excessive steam. This will help prevent them from spoiling ahead of time.
