A seemingly forgotten potato found in a kitchen pantry has become an unexpected viral star after terrifying two young girls who mistook its sprouting roots for something far more sinister.
The video, posted by TikTok user debo7870, shows her nieces screaming and crying after discovering the potato, which had been left undisturbed for months and had grown long pale shoots resembling legs.
As the camera focuses on the girls’ panicked reaction, the potato is held aloft, its sprouts dangling in all directions.
The clip has attracted more than 17 million views and a flurry of comments within five days with many pundits chiming in on the children’s fearful response.
One TikTok viewer agreed, “I don’t like that either.”
Another joked, “Bring him out when they are acting up.”
A n individual chipped in: “Bad kids be afraid of the most random things,” capturing the blend of amusement and bemusement many viewers felt while watching the scene unfold.
Though reactions ranged from laughter to sympathy, the visual of a potato morphing into what some described as “a creature” taps into a common domestic experience: produce sprouting in dark corners of the kitchen.
According to experts at Mississippi State University Extension, potatoes naturally sprout when left in conditions that simulate spring growth.
“Potatoes are tubers, which are underground stems that store nutrients for the plant. When conditions are favorable, potatoes will naturally begin to sprout,” the university’s site explains.
Risks Posed
The right mix of warmth, light exposure, humidity and time can encourage the “eyes” of a potato to produce new shoots and roots even while sitting in a pantry.
The sprouts themselves, while harmless in appearance, can pose risks if consumed.
According to the Food Network, “Sprouted potatoes are safe to eat, too; just remove the eyes and check the rest of the potatoes for freshness.”
However, if the potato has turned green or feels soft and wrinkled, it’s best to discard it.
“Sprouts, however, are not edible and should be removed and tossed,” the Food Network advises.
Childhood Fears
The video also struck a chord with parents and caretakers familiar with the random nature of childhood fears. The idea that an ordinary kitchen item could cause such a dramatic reaction resonated widely, adding to the humor and relatability of the post.
While the potato may have missed its chance to become fries or mashed potatoes, its transformation into a horror movie prop has brought a different kind of fame.
As for the nieces, their reaction might just guarantee that no potato in that household is ever left unchecked again.
Newsweek has reached out to debo7870 for comment via TikTok. We could not verify the details of the case.
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