Should You Refrigerate Sweet Potatoes?

Like white potatoes, sweet potatoes aren't refrigerated in the produce section of the grocery store but what is the best way to store them at home to keep them fresh until you want to use them? We consulted Nicole Richard, a research associate and food safety specialist at the University of Rhode Island's Food Safety Outreach and Research Program, for the optimal way to store raw sweet potatoes.

Where Should You Store Sweet Potatoes?

A dark, well-ventilated area is the best place to store sweet potatoes in your kitchen. You should avoid storing sweet potatoes in the refrigerator says Richard, explaining that refrigerator storage "will produce a hard center and unpleasant taste." If you choose to store sweet potatoes on your countertop, keep an eye on them because Richard notes that storing the tubers in the sunlight can cause them to sprout.

Another important note about storage? Refrigerating raw sweet potatoes could cause internal tissue darkening and overall deterioration. If you see the potatoes starting to mold or decay, whether they are in the refrigerator or on the counter, you should compost or toss them in your trash.

Storing Cooked Sweet Potatoes

Cooked sweet potato should be kept in the refrigerator and eaten within 5 to 7 days, says Richard. "Cooked food should not sit at room temperature more than two hours before putting it in the refrigerator or freezer (or one hour when the temperature is above 90°F)," she notes.