Potatoes are a staple in many households, but they can quickly sprout and become inedible if not stored properly10:48, 02 Jul 2026Updated 10:48, 02 Jul 2026Potatoes, celebrated for their adaptability in dishes whether mashed, baked, fried, boiled, roasted or otherwise, can nevertheless become a contributor to food waste when improperly stored. Wheeldon Brothers, specialists in waste management, recommend a simple trick that can maintain potato freshness for "months".‌They explained: "Storing potatoes with an apple helps prevent sprouting and keeps them fresher for longer. It's an easy way to reduce waste and make your groceries last."‌This clever technique, which has gained attention across social media, takes advantage of the ethylene gas that apples naturally emit.‌The specialists observed: "Ethylene gas helps regulate the ripening process, which can slow sprouting in potatoes."For the best results, they suggest pairing this approach with proper storage conditions, recommending somewhere cool, dark and dry.‌Contrary to the conventional wisdom of keeping them in a cupboard or pantry, experts now champion refrigerator storage to extend shelf life, asserting it can preserve potatoes "up to three times longer".They elaborate: "Earlier concerns about acrylamide formation have been debunked, and modern research shows that fridge storage is safe."Nevertheless, staying alert remains essential, as the expert warns: "It's important to regularly check potatoes for sprouting or green patches, as these can contain harmful toxins."‌Taking heed of warnings that sprouted or green potatoes should be avoided due to potential toxicity, experts advise storing them correctly and checking regularly for signs of spoilage to keep potatoes in the best possible condition.Another handy tip to extend their freshness is to steer clear of plastic bags, which trap moisture and speed up deterioration.This follows as YouTuber Tracy Tips believes that a simple four-step process means we can keep raw potatoes fresh and ready to eat for up to 12 months after purchasing them.‌To begin with, Tracy explains that you'll need a cardboard box, into which you should place dry paper, such as kitchen towel, along the bottom. Carrying out this step ensures that any "excess moisture is absorbed", while also protecting the potato's surface from damage.The following stage involves layering the potatoes on top of one another with kitchen towel placed in between, before it's time to "sprinkle a layer of baking powder over the surface of the potatoes".Explaining the reasoning behind using this culinary ingredient, she noted: "Using baking soda helps absorb moisture effectively and limits sprouting." Once the box is full, she recommended adding another layer of tissue paper, sealing the lid and keeping the vegetables in a location away from direct sunlight and moisture until they're ready to be used.Article continues belowWhile Tracy shared her advice for prolonging the life of potatoes, their shelf life can differ considerably depending on storage methods, and whether they are cooked or not.