Are Green or Sprouted Potatoes Toxic? What You Need to Know

A potato that has turned green or begun producing shoots is not automatically a medical emergency. However, these changes can indicate increased concentrations of natural defensive chemicals that become harmful when consumed in sufficient amounts.

The safest decision depends on the potato’s condition. Small sprouts and limited green patches can sometimes be removed, but heavily green, bitter, damaged or strongly sprouted potatoes should be discarded rather than rescued through cooking.