FoodHow to keep potatoes fresh: A fridge guide to storage times

How to keep potatoes fresh: A fridge guide to storage times

If you've never cooked more potatoes than necessary, be the first to throw a spud. Some people fry them up in the evening in a pan, while others store them in the fridge "for later." Like any product, potatoes have a shelf life. So how long can you keep potatoes in the fridge?

Boiled potatoes
Boiled potatoes
Images source: © Adobe Stock | Arina Habich

9:03 PM EDT, October 15, 2024

We've been taught from a young age not to waste food, and that's definitely an important lesson. Excess potatoes can be set aside and used later, but they do have an expiration date that should be followed. The duration varies depending on how the potatoes were prepared before entering the fridge.

How long to store potatoes in the fridge?

The shelf life of potatoes stored in the fridge varies depending on how they were prepared. Raw potatoes spoil quickly, while cooked or baked ones can last a few days. Remember that it's always a good idea to check the freshness of potatoes before preparing a meal, even when sticking to the recommended timeframes. Sensory evaluation is definitely advisable here.

Raw, peeled potatoes should be consumed within 24 hours. To prevent browning, store them in a bowl of cold water. Potato purée can last longer. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it can last up to 3-4 days. Refresh it with a bit of butter or milk before serving.

Pan-fried potatoes - Delicacies
Pan-fried potatoes - Delicacies© Adobe Stock | Robby Boehme

There are even fewer issues with plain-boiled potatoes. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. It's important to cool them quickly after boiling, and you shouldn't put them in the fridge while they're hot. Roasted potatoes are edible for about 3 days, but unfortunately, they lose a lot of quality as they cease to be as crispy as they were after roasting.

How to store potatoes?

Boiled potatoes and those mashed into purée should not be stored in metal containers, pots, or bowls. Metal can react with acids in the potatoes, affecting their taste and quality.

Spoiled potatoes have an unpleasant odor, are slimy and soft, and may have spots or mold. Such potatoes should be discarded without any doubts or guilt because health is the most important.

Mashed potatoes
Mashed potatoes© delicacies
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