Potato farmers settle the debate on the best way to store your potatoes

It's an age old debate how the beloved potato should be stored before being cooked.

Now potato farmers have shared their view to help you decide what the best way to keep your potatoes is. Kathy Sponheim, farmer at Michael Family Farms, a fourth-generation family potato farming business in the Ohio Central Valley has stated that potatoes are best kept in the pantry .

She said: “Store your potatoes in a cool, dark, well-ventilated place,” adding that the pantry “is often the best option as it is away from warm areas (cabinets next to ovens or under sinks) and off the countertop (light = greening).”

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She also said that if you have a basement with the temperature ranging between 55°F to 65°F that is also an ideal spot to store them, according to Simply Recipes .

Meanwhile, you should always avoid your potatoes getting too cold, which is why you shouldn’t store them in the refrigerator. Sponheim said: “I don’t recommend it as it is below 50°F, and this causes the starch to convert to sugar resulting in a different taste and discoloration when cooked.”

However, fourth-generation farmer and partner at Hall Potato Company in Hoople, North Dakota, TJ Hall, says there could be times when storing in the fridge is appropriate. Hall said: “It is only OK to put them in the refrigerator when you are looking for a sweeter potato, as the starches turn to sugar in the fridge - for up to two weeks.”

Sponheim also explained why the packaging your potatoes come in counts. She said: “Air circulation is important as potatoes respire like other living plants. Most bags sold at the store are perforated to ensure airflow.”

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Hall added: “Potatoes should be kept in a cool, dark place away from sunlight. Paper bags are OK but plastic ones are not - they still need to breathe! Or choose a basket or cardboard box if you have one.”

Hall warned that you should throw away any potatoes that are showing signs of mold, a foul smell, or mushiness. He said: “If you see mold, do not consume the potatoes and toss immediately. Black spots are generally harmless. You can cut around the black spots; this is particularly good for times when you are going to mash the potatoes, and aesthetics aren’t as important!”

However, if you see any sprouting or greening, don't worry too much. Sponheim said: “The most common are. Simply cut off those affected parts and the rest of the potato is still good to eat.”