Preserving potatoes during the monsoon season can be challenging. If stored improperly, potatoes quickly rot and decay, rendering them unusable. We're sharing some traditional potato storage methods that have been used for years.    

It wouldn't be wrong to say that potatoes are the lifeblood of Indian kitchens. There's hardly a home without potatoes. However, during the rainy and summer seasons, protecting potatoes from rotting and sprouting becomes a major challenge. Due to humidity and heat, potatoes spoil quickly.

If you want to keep potatoes fresh and safe for a long time, don't worry. Our grandmothers have some age-old, effective home remedies for this. These methods not only protect potatoes from rotting but also prevent them from sprouting. These home remedies are easy to use.

Store in a cool, dry and dark place

The most basic and important rule for storing potatoes is to always keep them in a cool, airy place but out of direct sunlight. Heat and light accelerate potato germination. However, in dark and cool places, potatoes remain dormant, which increases their shelf life.

Potatoes can be stored in a cupboard, a closed cabinet, or in a basement. But avoid storing potatoes in the refrigerator; the cold of the refrigerator converts the potato starch into sugar, which changes their taste.

Keep potatoes away from onions, keep them with apples

Potatoes should always be kept away from onions. The ethylene gas emitted by onions spoils potatoes quickly and encourages sprouting. Instead, you can place an apple or two with the potatoes. Although apples also emit ethylene gas, this gas helps prevent potatoes from sprouting. It's best to store potatoes and onions in separate baskets or mesh bags.

Use of newspaper or paper bags

You should use natural materials like newspaper or paper bags instead of plastic bags. You can also store them in jute sacks or wooden baskets. Because plastic bags don't allow air to circulate, moisture builds up inside, causing the potatoes to rot. However, paper bags or newspapers absorb moisture and help keep the potatoes dry.

Place mint leaves

Fresh mint can also help prevent potato sprouts. When storing potatoes, keep some fresh mint leaves with them. Mint contains compounds that can help control ethylene gas, which slows potato sprouting. Remember to replace mint leaves when they dry out.

Press into dry soil or sand

If you're storing a large amount of potatoes, this old-fashioned method is very effective. Spread a layer of dry sand, dry soil, or sawdust in a large container or deep vessel. Place a layer of potatoes on top, then another layer of sand/soil, and then again the potatoes. Press the potatoes layer by layer in this manner. The sand or soil protects the potatoes from moisture and light, preventing them from spoiling.

Always remember to check the potatoes thoroughly before storing them. Any rotten or bruised potatoes can spoil the rest. Discard such potatoes immediately.

Disclaimer: The claims made in this article are based on information found on the internet. NBT does not accept responsibility for its accuracy or veracity.