I baked a large russet potato for dinner

6. Texture and Taste: What to Expect If You Eat a Bruised Potato
Bruised potatoes with internal black spots may have a slightly altered texture and taste, although they are generally still edible. The affected areas can become slightly softer and may have a different mouthfeel compared to the rest of the potato. The flavor might also be slightly bitter in the discolored sections.
When cooked, the remaining healthy parts of the potato should taste as expected, with a fluffy texture and mild flavor. If you remove the bruised sections thoroughly, you can still enjoy your potato dish without any noticeable difference in taste or texture.
7. Health Risks: Is There Any Real Danger From Internal Black Spots?
The good news is that internal black spots, while unsightly, do not pose any significant health risks. These spots are purely a cosmetic issue and do not affect the potato's safety when consumed. They are not caused by bacteria or fungi, so they do not carry the risk of foodborne illnesses.
However, it's always important to ensure that the potato is not showing signs of rot or mold, as these can lead to health issues if ingested. As long as you follow the visual and smell checks and remove the affected areas, eating a potato with internal black spots is safe.
8. When to Toss the Potato Instead of Trying to Salvage It
There are certain situations where it's best to discard a potato rather than attempt to salvage it. If the potato has a pervasive foul odor, extensive mold growth, or a mushy texture, it's a sign of advanced spoilage. These conditions indicate that the potato is no longer safe to eat.
Additionally, if the discoloration is widespread and removing the affected areas would leave very little usable potato, it might be more practical to start with a fresh one. It's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to food safety. 

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