By Miranda Pell
Arguably one of the most versatile ingredients, potatoes are a British favourite for a reason, but they don’t always last particularly well. Potatoes can be used in a million different ways including mashed, baked, fried, boiled, roasted and more, making them a perfect ingredient for a huge array of dishes. However, if not stored properly, it can lead to unnecessary waste. The healthy and affordable vegetable can last up to two to three months when stored correctly, however if stored at room temperature they can spoil and grow sprouts within one to two weeks. But waste management experts have now issued a top tip for stopping those potatoes growing sprouts and how to extend their shelf live for up to “months”. According to waste management specialists Wheeldon Brothers, this simple trick can extend a potato for 鈥渕onths鈥, reports the Express . They said: 鈥淪toring potatoes with an apple helps prevent sprouting and keeps them fresher for longer. It鈥檚 an easy way to reduce waste and make your groceries last.鈥 The simple trick, which gained popularity on social media, works due to the ethylene gas which apples naturally release. The expert added: 鈥淓thylene gas helps regulate the ripening process, which can slow sprouting in potatoes. 鈥淔or the best results, combine this method with proper storage and keep potatoes in a cool, dark and dry environment.鈥 Traditionally, storing potatoes in a cupboard or pantry was the go-to method, however, the experts now recommend storing them in the fridge which could keep them fresh 鈥渦p to three times longer鈥. The experts added: 鈥淓arlier concerns about acrylamide formation have been debunked, and modern research shows that fridge storage is safe. It鈥檚 important to regularly check potatoes for sprouting or green patches, as these can contain harmful toxins. 鈥淪prouted or green potatoes should not be eaten. To keep your potatoes in top condition, store them properly and check them for any signs of spoilage.鈥 Another way to keep them fresher for longer is to ditch any plastic bags which trap moisture and speed up spoilage. This tip actually applies to a wide variety of vegetables and fruit.