It's critical to check the condition of the potatoes before using them in any recipe. If the potato is mushy, it's best to toss it and purchase fresh ones. Additionally, smell the potato to identify a moldy odor, indicating it has gone bad.  Lastly, avoid consuming potatoes with sprouts growing on the surface. If the sprouts have only recently appeared, cut them off the potato, so it is safe to eat. However, if the sprouts have grown long, toss out the potato and get some fresh ones from the store.