Potatoes are loved all over the world, but Americans are apparently way too fond of them. They love them in all shapes and forms; be it mashed, fried, roasted, or any other style. It’s like they have a love affair with the vegetable that can’t quite be explained or put into words.

But despite all of that, has anyone ever tried eating a raw potato? This brings us to our next question—can we even consume potatoes raw? Keep reading to find out.

Mahmoud Fawzy/Unsplash | Most people, especially Americans, love potatoes in all forms, except raw

Loaded with Nutrition

Interestingly enough, raw potatoes are loaded with vitamin C and they resist starch, making them high in terms of nutrition, which is why some folks might get excited to give it a try. Before you proceed to bite into raw potatoes, just because they contain a higher nutrient content does not mean it's worth giving a shot. Raw potatoes are not only difficult to digest but can also cause various gastrointestinal problems, all thanks to that same resistant starch. Sure, they provide several health benefits, but when this starch is consumed in higher amounts it can lead to gastric issues, along with discomfort and bloating. And if we’re being honest, the associated risks don't end there…

Dangers Associated with Eating Raw Potatoes

If problems like intestinal gas are not enough of a turn-off for you with regards to raw potato, there are several other risks to consider as well. The reason why the consumption of raw potatoes is a big no-no is due to the fact that they contain a toxic compound called solanine, which can cause headaches, nausea, diarrhea, and in the most severe conditions, even death.

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While most fully grown ripe potatoes contain only traces of this compound, once a potato is exposed to the sun or stored for a longer period of time, it starts turning green and growing sprouts which makes this compound grow even more, making it quite more dangerous and toxic.

That's not it!

Just like any other raw food, the risk of bacterial contamination that comes with consuming raw potatoes is extremely high, because it's root grows underground, completely covered in soil.

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Try At Your Risk

Though consuming raw potatoes is not a great idea, if you still want to try them, make sure you wash them thoroughly and remove their outer layer completely as it contains the most amounts of lingering bacteria.