Proper storage of potatoes is necessary to ensure that they stay fresh and do not grow sprouts. Most people tend to keep their potatoes in moist places or in plastic bags without knowing the damage they are causing to the potatoes. One simple way to store potatoes is by putting them inside an empty cardboard box. This is a great tip that has been used for years in storing food. If you wish to store potatoes effectively without them going bad or becoming soft or developing sprouts, this is the best way to go about it.
Why proper potato storage matters
The potatoes are very sensitive to light, water, and temperature. In the presence of light, they generate chlorophyll and solanine, which causes the potatoes to be bitter in taste, and when taken in high amounts, solanine becomes toxic. Excessive water makes the potatoes susceptible to mould and decay. Correct storage is essential in minimising post-harvest loss of root and tuber crops.
How a cardboard box keeps potatoes fresh
Since a cardboard box, which is a hollow object, is used to store things, it is a useful tool in storage because it has porous characteristics. Unlike a plastic bag, which does not allow ventilation and air, the cardboard box allows ventilation and air to enter it, therefore ensuring that the atmosphere remains constant for the potatoes.The potatoes have to be stored in an environment that is cool, dark, and well-ventilated. This is naturally provided by the cardboard box if it is kept in a cool place like the pantry or the closet.
Best practices for storing potatoes at home
In order to ensure maximum efficiency of this approach, there are some basic tips that could help:
- Ensure that the cardboard box is placed in a cool, dark area (preferably 7-10 degrees Celsius).
- Never wash potatoes prior to their storage, since moisture will accelerate the rate at which they deteriorate.
- Always ensure that potatoes are never stored with onions, since gases emitted from onions accelerate the rate at which potatoes deteriorate.
Place some paper inside the cardboard box or leave the box partially open to facilitate air circulation.
A sustainable and cost-effective kitchen hack
The use of an empty cardboard box, in addition to being useful, is also very ecological. You will be giving a second use to the packaging, reducing the amount of waste produced and maximising storage capacity, thus saving money and promoting sustainable living.In addition, it represents a step back to older ways, which are often better than modern techniques for the conservation of food.Potato storage doesn’t need special devices or elaborate mechanisms. The combination of the right levels of darkness, moisture, and ventilation that a cardboard box offers is all that is necessary to store potatoes properly. This and other simple tips can make a significant difference for the environment and for your budget.
