Knowledgebase

Potato inclusion #927039

Asked March 30, 2026, 9:37 AM EDT

Why do our potatoes have crystal-like brown interior?

Morrison County Minnesota

Expert Response

This is likely a physiological disorder called Brown Center. It is not a disease. It's often caused by sudden changes in the weather and the potato's reaction to those. It can also be caused by cold soiltemperatures early in the growth cycle. The potatoes are safe to eat. For more information about this condition, see https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/hollow_heart_in_potatoes

Diane M Replied March 30, 2026, 5:31 PM EDT

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This work is supported in part by New Technologies for Ag Extension grant no. 2020-41595-30123 from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

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