Millions of households across the UK are likely making a simple but costly mistake with their potato storage, causing this kitchen staple to spoil prematurely. According to experts, a minor change in how you store your spuds can extend their life for months, saving money and reducing food waste.
The Fridge and Plastic Bag Pitfalls
Recipe creator and cookbook author Nikole Goncalves has tested various methods to determine the optimal way to keep food fresh. She strongly advises against two common practices: storing potatoes in the plastic bags they are often sold in, and keeping them in the refrigerator.
"Store them in a brown paper bag and keep them in a dark, cool place that is not the fridge," Nikole recommends. She explains that refrigeration can negatively alter the flavour and texture of potatoes, which is undesirable for cooking.
The Critical Onion Rule
Nikole then highlights the most crucial rule for prolonging potato life: keeping them well away from onions. She admits to having fallen victim to this error herself, warning that onions emit a gas that accelerates spoilage in potatoes.
"You do not want to be storing your onions in with your potatoes because they actually let out a gas, which is going to make your potatoes sprout and go bad faster," she stated. This gas is ethylene, a natural plant hormone that triggers the sprouting process in nearby potatoes.
The advice works both ways. Potatoes release moisture, which can cause stored onions to become soft and mouldy. The solution is to keep both vegetables in separate, cool, and dark locations. If space is limited, maintaining a gap of at least one to two feet between them can help.
Expert Tips for Maximum Shelf Life
For those aiming for the longest possible storage, experts from Tesco Real Food offer additional guidance. They suggest placing potatoes on a sheet of newspaper in a dark place, ensuring the individual spuds do not touch to allow for air circulation.
This newspaper method can be a perfect substitute if you don't have a brown paper bag and can help potatoes remain edible for an impressive six months. The key takeaway, as Nikole Goncalves summarises, is that proper storage leads to longer-lasting produce, which translates directly into financial savings and a significant reduction in kitchen waste.
By simply segregating your onions and potatoes and choosing the right storage environment, you can ensure your potatoes stay firm and fresh, ready for countless home-cooked meals without frequent supermarket top-ups.
