Are potatoes past sell by date harmful?

* "Sell by" dates are for stores, not consumers. They indicate the last date a store should sell the product to ensure optimal quality.

* Potatoes can last much longer than the sell by date. They are a root vegetable that can stay fresh for weeks or even months if stored properly.

* Look for signs of spoilage: Instead of relying on the sell-by date, check for signs like sprouting, shriveling, discoloration, or soft spots. If you see these, it's best to discard the potato.

Tips for storing potatoes:

* Store in a cool, dark place: A pantry or basement is ideal.

* Avoid storing near onions: Onions emit gas that can cause potatoes to sprout.

* Don't refrigerate: Cold temperatures can damage potatoes.

In summary: While it's always best to use potatoes before their sell by date, they are not inherently harmful past that date. Look for signs of spoilage and enjoy them while they're still fresh!