Glycoalkaloid Concentration in Potato Tubers Related to Storage and Consumer Offering

Steroidal glycoalkaloids (SGA) are unwanted potato constituents for consumers because they are highly toxic and therefore have to be controlled in the food chain. Three experiments were carried out focusing on storage aspects and on exposure to artificial light at the point of sale. The experiments showed that an elevated temperature (10 °C) during long-term storage without sprouting inhibitors led to an increase in SGA contents (up to 518 mg SGA kg⁻¹ dry matter) in two of three investigated cultivars independent of the sprouting level. Cold storage (4 °C) slightly enhanced SGA contents in two cultivars. Sprout control resulted in a tendentious decrease in SGA contents in a set of another three cultivars. Growing location and wet and cool seasons had an influence too. Moderate exposure to light resulted in an increase in SGA in autumn, but in a decrease in spring time. Again, cultivars tested responded differently. The addressed factors have to be considered when developing strategies in minimising SGA level in table potatoes.