Potatoes can stay fresh for up to five months when stored in the refrigerator, according to advice shared online and backed by food hygiene experts. The common kitchen storage method prevents early sprouting and wrinkling, a frequent problem when potatoes are kept in cupboards.
Potatoes are a versatile staple, used for mash, roasting, baking, or chips. When stored correctly, they can remain edible for several months. However, they may sprout earlier than expected if conditions are not suitable.
Facebook advice on potato storage
A user on the Homemaking Tips Facebook page asked for advice on storing potatoes and received many suggestions. Sally Keller wrote: "Is there a way to keep potatoes fresh longer? I can't seem to keep mine fresh for longer than a week."
Kater Gonzales commented: "I always refrigerate my potatoes, as they always sprout whenever I keep them in the cupboards." Siabela Mathew said: "I put them inside the refrigerator, and they last forever." Dayna Newman agreed: "I keep mine in the refrigerator too and never had a problem."
Carmen Leyva wrote: "I always keep mine in the refrigerator. They lasted five months last time." While many commenters recommended the fridge, others questioned whether it was entirely safe.
Expert guidance on fridge storage
Previous advice suggested storing potatoes in a cool, dry, and dark place, such as a cupboard. Food hygiene experts now recommend they "should be kept in the fridge at below five degrees Celsius," according to Love Food Hate Waste. They added: "Doing so keeps them fresh for three times as long, so you'll have lots more time to cook up something delicious with them."
Britain's leading potato supplier Albert Bartlett agreed that "all potatoes should be stored in the fridge for freshness." They added: "We previously suggested that you keep most potatoes in a cool, dry and dark place, but storing them in the fridge can make them last up to three weeks longer."
Safety checks for stored potatoes
Sprouted potatoes are safe to eat if the sprout is removed before cooking. Potatoes should be inspected for mould or green patches, which indicate spoilage. Soft, shrivelled, or foul-smelling potatoes should be discarded, as should any that seep moisture.
Fresh potatoes should feel firm and have an earthy scent, though they may still have dark spots or green areas inside, which can be cut away before eating.
