Toxic Tubers

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Potatoes are a favorite food of mine. I enjoy them boiled, baked, fried, smashed, or, at times, even raw. The most common type is the Russet, which is grown all over Idaho. They are best kept in cool, dark places for longer life. It's a good idea to throw out any green or sprouting potatoes. They produce a natural toxin called solanine. This is a natural defense mechanism for the plant. It is a bitter-tasting compound that develops when potatoes are exposed to light. (It is a poison from the nightshade family.) Solanine can cause headaches, gastrointestinal issues, diarrhea, fever, and even neurological issues if consumed in large amounts. Cooking can reduce levels of solanine but may not remove it completely. The picture is from woodprairie.com