Can you eat purple sweet potatoes with white streaks after peeling?

Sep 20, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhu Xuping
Introduction
After peeling the purple sweet potato, the flesh is exposed to air and comes into contact with oxygen. This may cause oxidation of polyphenolic compounds on the surface of the flesh, resulting in white or light-colored streaks. This oxidation reaction is normal and does not affect the safety of consuming the purple sweet potato. Additionally, the color of the purple sweet potato comes from its rich content of natural pigments such as anthocyanins.

In general, it is safe to eat purple sweet potatoes that have white streaks after peeling, as this does not pose any harm to health. The detailed explanation is as follows:

After peeling a purple sweet potato, the flesh is exposed to air and comes into contact with oxygen. This may cause oxidation of polyphenolic compounds on the surface of the flesh, resulting in white or light-colored streaks. This oxidation reaction is normal and does not affect the safety of consuming the sweet potato. Additionally, the purple color of the sweet potato comes from natural anthocyanins such as anthocyanidins. However, during the peeling process, uneven distribution of pigments in different parts may lead to some areas appearing white or lighter in color. This variation is mainly due to individual differences and growing conditions, and poses no harm when consumed. Therefore, the presence of white streaks after peeling does not make the sweet potato unsafe to eat and will not affect health. However, if the peeled sweet potato shows signs of spoilage—such as an unusual odor, discoloration, softness, or rotting—it should not be eaten.

Maintaining healthy eating habits in daily life contributes to overall well-being. If discomfort occurs after accidentally consuming spoiled sweet potato, prompt medical attention is recommended to avoid delaying treatment.