Can you still eat Jerusalem artichokes when they have sprouted?
Nov 01, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Jerusalem artichoke usually refers to sunchoke. Generally speaking, if the sunchoke has only sprouted but not spoiled, it is usually still edible. However, if the sunchoke has both sprouted and spoiled, it is typically not safe to eat. In daily life, maintain a balanced diet, avoid overeating or excessive dietary bias, and increase intake of vitamin-rich vegetables and fruits such as tomatoes, carrots, apples, etc.
Jerusalem artichoke usually refers to sunchoke. Generally speaking, if the sunchoke has sprouted but not spoiled, it is usually still edible. However, if the sunchoke has sprouted and also shows signs of spoilage, it is typically not safe to eat. The specific analysis is as follows:
Sunchoke contains protein, fat, carbohydrates, fiber, and minerals, and has benefits such as regulating gastrointestinal function and assisting in lowering blood lipids and blood glucose levels. If the sunchoke has only sprouted without spoiling, it is generally still edible, although the texture and taste may be somewhat diminished. Before consuming sprouted sunchokes, it is recommended to remove the sprouts and surrounding portions appropriately to reduce undesirable flavors, and thoroughly wash them with clean water.
If the sunchoke has sprouted and was not properly stored, leading to extensive bacterial or mold growth and visible spoilage—such as mold, softness, rotting, or unpleasant odors—it should not be consumed. Eating spoiled sunchokes may increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract and cause discomfort such as bloating and abdominal pain.
In daily life, maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding overeating or excessive dietary preferences, and increasing intake of vitamin-rich vegetables and fruits—such as tomatoes, carrots, apples, etc.—can contribute to overall health.
