Avoid storing potatoes with food that triggers sprouting warns Marta Stewart

Potatoes typically start sprouting as their dormancy period comes to a close, as the end of the cycle signals new growth for the spuds.  

Another factor that triggers sprouting, however, is the presence of ethylene gas, which is emitted from fruits like onions and bananas.

This is why potatoes that are stored alongside certain fruits and vegetables are more likely to start sprouting prematurely. What’s more, eating the sprouting potatoes carries a small risk of toxicity from solanine and chaconine, two natural toxins.

Martha Stewart’s website supports the suggestion that onions should be kept away from apples and potatoes.  

Speaking to Stewart, John Adler, the vice president of culinary at Blue Apron, said: “In general, don’t store ethylene-sensitive fruits or vegetables with fruits or vegetables that produce a high amount of ethylene gasses.

“Probably the best example of this is storing onions with apples […]and more commonly onions with potatoes.

“Storing onions and potatoes together will hasten the ripening process on the potatoes, leading them to grow eyes and sometimes roots.”