Potatoes contain toxic compounds known as glycoalkaloids, with the most common being solanine and chaconine.
The solanine toxin in potatoes affects the nervous system, leading to poisoning in those who consume it… (Illustrative image).
The solanine toxin can naturally occur in any part of the plant, including leaves, fruit, and tubers. Besides potatoes, solanine is also found in other plants of the nightshade family, such as belladonna, eggplant, and tomatoes. This toxin affects the nervous system, causing poisoning that can result in symptoms such as diarrhea, confusion, loss of motor control, muscle weakness, and even death.
Potatoes stored in dark environments, or those that are damaged or rotten, will produce higher levels of glycoalkaloids within the tubers, with the highest concentrations found in the skin and sprouts. Glycoalkaloids are difficult to break down, even at high temperatures, and can lead to poisoning if ingested.
Additionally, rotting potatoes will produce methane gas. At low concentrations, methane is not harmful, and inhaling small amounts poses no health risk. However, at high concentrations, methane can be dangerous, especially in enclosed spaces.
If there is a high concentration of methane in an enclosed environment, it can create a fire or explosion risk, reduce the oxygen needed for survival, and increase the risk of suffocation, potentially leading to death.
