Tag: 4 ipomeanol

While the edible tuber of the common sweet potato is not inherently poisonous, there are specific circumstances under which it can become harmful. The primary threat comes not from the vegetable itself, but from a mold that produces a toxin called ipomeanol, typically following physical damage or improper storage. Understanding how to identify spoilage is key to preventing health risks and enjoying this nutritious vegetable safely.

Over decades of research, scientists have identified a class of toxic compounds called furanoterpenoids, primarily ipomeamarone, which are the culprits behind sweet potato poisoning. These toxins are not present in fresh, healthy sweet potatoes but are produced by the plant in response to stress, most notably fungal infections.