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Why Do Carrots Turn White – How To Fix It?

Carrots are a root vegetable best known for their high level of fiber, minerals, antioxidant compounds, and vitamins. When consumed regularly, carrots can help regulate blood sugar levels, lower the risks of developing diabetes and increase your bone health. 

Therefore, it should come as no surprise that most family meals are loaded with this delicious veggie.

However, their bright orange appearances are sometimes marred with white marks. These marks run from one side to another, causing a rather displeasing sight. Why do carrots turn white? And what can you do to fix this problem? Keep reading to find out more!

Why Do Carrots Turn White
via Reddit

Why Do Carrots Turn White?

Carrots turning white is a common issue. When not uprooted, carrots are filled with water to keep the plants alive and nutritious. After being harvested, the moisture in the outer layers of carrots starts leaving the bodies. 

This causes dehydration and drier skin, creating the perfect opportunities for whitish markings to form.

Some scientists refer to this occurrence as carrot blush, noticing how the white marks only develop on baby carrots and not full-sized ones. This is due to the lack of protective skin covering the outside of the plants. But do not let this imperfection harm your appetite. 

Carrot blush is pretty normal and is indicative of no real problem. Consuming them does not bring about any significant health issues, so go ahead and cook them as usual.

How To Fix Carrot Blush

While carrot blush is not harmful, it can be a bit of an eyesore. Are you interested in turning your carrots back to their original form? Let’s follow the instructions below.

Step 1: Prepare a bowl of freshwater. Keep the temperature relatively cool so that it does not interfere with the carrots’ texture.

Step 2: Wash the carrots briefly under running water to remove any excess dirt. This also gets rid of any unusual stretches on the plants.

Step 3: Gently put the carrots deep inside your bowl of water. Let them soak for roughly 3 to 5 minutes. 

Step 4: Pull the carrots out and see if the white marks have disappeared. If not, return the carrots and wait for them to continue rehydrating. 

Step 5: Once your carrots are fully restored, store them for later use. 

What Are The Health Benefits Of Carrots

Not only are carrots visually pleasant, but they are also an excellent addition to your diet. Below are some of the most useful benefits of consuming carrots that you should know.

Carrots better your vision

Carrots are rich in pre-vitamin B, or beta-carotene. When digested, this substance slowly morphs into vitamin B, providing much-needed protection for your eyes against direct sunlight. 

Some strands of carrots contain lutein, which is proven helpful for slowing down age-related optical problems. 

Carrots are good for your cardiovascular system

Carrots contain a lot of antioxidants, keeping your heart in the best shape possible. Coupled with fiber, lycopene, and potassium, a regular helping of carrots daily lowers your chances of developing heart-related diseases. 

Carrots can handle constipation

Have you ever been in the embarrassing situation of being constipated? Worry not, as carrots are there for you. Doctors recommend eating raw carrots to deal with constipation, as the high amount of fiber smoothens your bowels.  

Carrots can build up your bones

Vitamin K and calcium are two common substances in carrots. Not only are they necessary for bone building and strengthening, but they also keep your joints firm. 

Carrots improve your overall immune system

Vitamin C is frequently found in carrots, testifying to their ability to create antibodies that keep viruses at bay. You will be less prone to minor ailments when vitamin C kicks in and defends your body from harmful intruders. 

Carrots lower the risk of having cancer

Anthocyanins and carotenoids are two popular antioxidants in carrots. Together, they create a perfect combination to ward off free radicals, preventing them from forming cancer.

Carrots can regulate your diabetes

Whether you are already diagnosed with this disease, or you simply want to take precautions, eating carrots is highly recommended by medical experts. As carrots are filled with beta-carotene, vitamin A, and fiber, they help supervise your blood sugar levels.

Health Benefits Of Carrots
Friends with Superior Benefits – via Wikimedia

FAQs

1. How to tell if your carrots have gone bad?

Having white marks running across their bodies is not a sign of rotten carrots. However, you might have to throw them away if your carrots have developed dark spots, mold, or feel squishy upon direct contact. 

In most cases, a foul odor will emit from your carrots, alerting you about their state.

2. Should carrots be refrigerated?

Not really. Storing them at room temperature ensures a lifespan of roughly 4 to 5 days, which is more than enough for most households. Still, if you intend on storing lots of carrots for a longer time, consider moving them to the fridge.

3. What happens if I eat expired carrots?

Expired carrots can cause food poisoning should you happen to consume them. You will be subject to vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomaches. The severity of your symptoms will depend on how bad your carrots have gone and how much you ate. 

4. Is it okay to eat carrots every day?

There is no exact instruction on how frequently you should eat your carrots. But remember that too much is not good. While eating carrots in moderation is useful for your health, it can turn detrimental should you fail to control the daily intake. 


Conclusion

Now that you have finished the article, hopefully, you never have to ask “Why do carrots turn white?” when such an accident happens inside your kitchen. All you have to do is to let them soak in water, and voila! The plants are back and fresh as always!