A Review of the Health Impacts of Solanine: The Toxic Alkaloid Found in Potatoes

Solanine, a steroidal glycoside found in potatoes, serves as a natural defense mechanism for the plant, exhibiting fungicidal and pesticidal properties that protect it from phytopathogenic fungi.This compound can be present in various parts of the plant, including the leaves, fruits, and tubers.However, control measures on solanum glycoside toxins are based on careful selection and seed potato varieties, and attention to handling and processing.In order to reduce the risks and ensure sustainable storage, potatoes should be stored in cool, dark areas.Solanine poisoning is primarily manifested by gastrointestinal and neurological disorders and may cause severe nervous and exanthematous syndrome.This review provides a comprehensive survey on glycoalkaloid distribution in potatoes and its associated factors, its impact on flavor, the neurotoxic effects of solanine on humans, the various analytical methods used for its evaluation, and strategies to control its formation.