Why Do Grocery Stores Tuck in Potatoes at Night?

I’m eagle-eyed when I grocery shop, especially when it comes to the produce section. I know what not to do with fruits and veggies. I know what not to worry about in the refrigerated areas (that would otherwise totally alarm me). But sometimes I come across bizarre things at the grocery store—even weirder than Fruity Pebbles water or Wendy’s reversing its entire business model or a new flavor of almonds that no one asked for.

Before a recent camping trip, my friend went on a snack run for the crew, sliding in hot to their local PCC Community Markets right before it closed for the night. They texted the group chat an unusual photo from the produce area: potato bins covered in blankets.

“Potatoes were asleep!” they said.

It did look like the potatoes were being tucked into bed for a good night’s sleep. But why? And why didn’t the other produce get a cute little bedtime routine?

So, I asked the potato pros in Idaho. Surely, there’s a good reason. Turns out, it’s important.

Why Some Grocery Stores Put Blankets Over Potatoes, According to a Potato Farmer

“The simple answer is, potatoes are sensitive to light,” said Ross Johnson, Retail and International Vice President for the Idaho Potato Commission. “The blankets protect them from unnecessary light at night, which helps with the longevity of the shelf life for the potato.”

Most grocery stores are likely keeping lights on at night after the store closes for security, but that extra light has negative effects on potatoes.

“They will begin to turn green, similar to a human sunburn, and the green can give a bitter flavor to any dish,” said Ross. “There really isn’t any harm from consuming green potatoes, but it does throw off the flavor and eye appeal for purchase.”

Ross added that the same logic goes for the lightbulb in your fridge. “When you’re storing your potatoes at home, it is best to keep them in a cool, dark place and not in your refrigerator, where they will be exposed to more light.”

This storage strategy also helps prevent sprouting, and while a root cellar is the gold standard for storing potatoes, there are modern ways to create potato storage in your pantry.

Other produce is sensitive to light, too. Alliums may not get quilted blankets overnight, but you should definitely store your onions, shallots, and garlic in a cool, dark place as well.

Or just throw a blanket over your kitchen counter!