Potatoes are one of the most popular staple foods among children, thanks to their delicious taste that few can resist—especially when served hot with ketchup or spices that enhance their flavor. However, when potatoes turn green or red, or when small sprouts appear on their surface, they become unsafe for consumption. In addition, excessive intake of fried potatoes may cause serious health problems, including food poisoning.
In this feature, we speak with Dr. Safia Al-Azzazi, a clinical nutrition specialist, to learn about the benefits of potatoes for infants and children, the precautions parents should take before buying and serving them, and the health risks associated with spoiled and fried potatoes in particular.
When Can Your Baby Eat Potatoes?
Babies can start eating cooked potatoes from the age of 6–7 months, provided they are steamed or boiled and mashed well to make them easy to swallow.
As your baby grows, you can mix potatoes with other vegetables to introduce new flavors and nutrients.
Children older than 9 months can eat baked, roasted, or grilled potatoes, as long as they are prepared in a healthy way.
Benefits of Potatoes for Babies
Provide energy: Potatoes are rich in carbohydrates, supplying the energy needed for movement, growth, development, and healthy weight gain.
Rich in nutrients: They contain magnesium, potassium, sodium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6, all essential for immunity and overall health.
Support digestion: The starch and fiber in potatoes promote healthy gut bacteria and digestive function.
Nourish the skin: Thanks to starch and vitamin C, potatoes help support healthy skin.
Support liver health: Potatoes help protect the liver from chemical damage. Their peels are also beneficial when cleaned properly.
Natural laxative: The fiber content helps prevent constipation and improves bowel movement.
Boost immunity: Potatoes play a role in strengthening immunity due to their vitamin C content.
Easy to prepare and eat: Mashed potatoes are simple for mothers to prepare and easy for babies to consume because of their soft texture.
Strengthen bones: Potatoes contain calcium, which helps strengthen bones and reduce the risk of weakness or deformities.
Nutritional Value of Potatoes
A single serving of mashed potatoes (about 60 grams) provides:
Water: 43.3 g
Energy: 75 calories
Protein: 1.12 g
Carbohydrates: 12.3 g
Magnesium: 14.4 mg
Phosphorus: 28.8 mg
Potassium: 223 mg
Sodium: 100 mg
Vitamin C: 7.26 mg
Dangerous Signs of Spoiled Potatoes
Green color: Caused by sun exposure and chlorophyll production, but more importantly indicates the presence of solanine, a toxic substance. Large green areas mean the potato should be discarded.
Sprouts (eyes): A clear sign of solanine. Potatoes with sprouts are unsafe for children.
Soft or wrinkled texture: Indicates old potatoes that may contain higher toxin levels.
Red spots or stains: May indicate contamination or internal spoilage.
Unpleasant odor: A strong or unusual smell is a sign of decay and means the potato should be thrown away.
Solanine can cause headaches, vomiting, and digestive problems, especially in children.
Safety Tips for Children
Store potatoes in a cool, dry, and dark place, preferably in a paper bag to protect them from sunlight.
Never serve potatoes with green spots or sprouts to children, even if the visible parts are removed.
Wash and peel potatoes thoroughly; remove thick skins and the layer beneath them, which may contain toxins or pesticide residues.
Choose firm, light-colored potatoes (yellow or beige) without spots.
Serve potatoes in moderation and limit fried potatoes due to excess fat and salt.
Health Risks of Spoiled Potatoes
Spoiled potatoes can negatively affect liver health and overall well-being and may cause food poisoning. Avoid storing potatoes in plastic bags, as this prevents ventilation and accelerates spoilage.
Harmful Effects of Fried Potatoes on Children
Obesity: Fried potatoes quickly convert into sugar in the body, increasing the risk of weight gain when physical activity is low.
Diabetes: They cause rapid spikes in blood sugar, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Heart disease: Saturated and unhealthy fats raise the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer later in life.
Acid reflux and digestive issues: Fried potatoes can worsen reflux and affect intestinal health.
High cholesterol: They increase bad cholesterol (LDL) and reduce good cholesterol (HDL).
Precautions When Feeding Potatoes to Your Child
For infants, offer only smooth mashed potatoes with no lumps to avoid choking.
Combine potatoes with other foods once your baby starts eating mixed meals (after 9 months).
If your child seems uncomfortable after eating potatoes, stop and try again after a few days.
Watch for signs of food allergy such as rash, persistent cough, vomiting, or diarrhea when offering potatoes for the first time.
If any of these symptoms appear, stop serving potatoes and consult a pediatrician immediately.
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