Potatoes

How Potatoes Can Benefit From Air Fryer Popularity

Fri, 08 May 2026 15:09:16 GMT

Air fryer adoption is creating new momentum for fresh potatoes, says Fresh Solutions Network. The Newport Beach, Calif.-based company adds that its Side Delights portfolio offers retailers a path to take advantage of the trend.

“Air fryers are changing how consumers cook, and Side Delights potatoes deliver exactly what shoppers want — speed, flavor and versatility,” says Kathleen Triou, president and CEO of Fresh Solutions Network. “Retailers can drive incremental sales by positioning Side Delights as the go-to air fryer solution.”

As shoppers seek fast, crispy, restaurant-quality results at home, potatoes are emerging as a top-performing air fryer staple, says Triou.

“Air fryers are elevating everyday potato usage — from baked russets to crispy fries,” she says. “By merchandising Side Delights across formats, retailers can turn that demand into larger baskets and repeat purchases.”

Triou says Side Delights makes it easy to merchandise a complete set built for today’s cooking habits:

Flavorables with Spiceology seasonings offer bold, on-trend flavor options.
Side DelightsPetites offer quick, even crisping.
Steamables offer triple-washed, ready-to-cook air fryer convenience.

From weeknight meals to entertaining, air fryers are expanding the range of potato occasions, says Fresh Solutions Network . Retailers can win with secondary displays, cross-merchandising and bundled sets that emphasize the speed and crisp texture made possible with air fryers.

The Farmlink Project Breaks the Silence on Surplus Produce

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 22:56:03 GMT

The latest campaign from The Farmlink Project, a nonprofit that connects farmers with surplus produce to food banks, highlights how the organization rescued 6 million pounds of potatoes.

Eliza Blank, CEO of The Farmlink Project, says growers are facing this surplus due to a bumper crop year in the U.S. and in Europe, which makes it difficult for U.S. growers to send the potatoes to processing overseas.

Aidan Reilly, co-founder of The Farmlink Project, says the other problem is that the domestic market for potatoes collapsed during this time of strong yields and U.S. potato growers feel powerless to discuss these challenges.

“Every mention that there’s surplus product in the market hurts the market even more and hurts these people and these families even more,” Reilly says. “This hush-hush nature — while there’s just millions of dollars being lost, farmers struggling and just mountains of not just potatoes, whatever the produce of the season might be just rotting.”

Breaking the Taboo of the Bumper Crop

Reilly says he learned about the surplus through a Facebook post and knew Farmlink needed to help. Blank says growers don’t want food to go to waste, yet in a complicated fresh produce supply chain, it might mean that growers don’t see many options for their surplus.

“What I’ve come to learn and appreciate about the work we do is that there are so many stakeholders in food and in food systems,” Blank says. “And it is very challenging to try and satisfy all of them, even though they may all have equal importance.”

She says this puts growers in an unfortunate situation where food donation might be a conduit for the surplus, but maybe they don’t know where to turn.

“They’re in a position where they can’t talk about it; it also means a lot of the food just isn’t getting donated,” she says. “These farmers want to donate food. You don’t grow food and then trash it without feeling something very deeply.”

Aidan Reilly, co-founder of The Farmlink Project, says he hopes a new campaign about the organization’s efforts takes some of the taboo away from food surplus.

(Photo courtesy of The Farmlink Project)

From Social Media Sensation to Supply Chain Solution

To call attention to this surplus and to promote the work that Farmlink does — tracking down surplus produce and getting it to communities in need — the organization launched a Food Search and Rescue unit and a social media campaign.

The campaign features creative videos and language to draw people in with novelty, keeping consumers around for the message.

“We just decided to go all in on that concept where it’s like we’re going to make something fun and short and shareable,” he says. “But if you’re going to get one message across, it’s about what Farmlink exists for, which is we’re going to go out wherever this is in the middle of a field and find where this product is.”

He says that message seems to resonate with Farmlink’s social media audience.

“I have many anecdotes of people who clicked on us because of something fun or funny we did,” Reilly says. “And now they’ve become fully aware of the situation in the United States, and those are really valuable transformations for me. That’s a huge win in our eyes. That’s why we do stuff like this.”

While there is a fundraiser as a part of this campaign , Reilly says the real focus of this search and rescue campaign is to raise awareness of the need for solutions like Farmlink.

“We wanted something to point to. We wanted strong imagery. We wanted people to get impressions, attention that we can point to, drive more focus toward something like this, because it’s not the last time it’s going to happen,” he says. “It’s not the first time.”

Eliza Blank, CEO of The Farmlink Project, says the messaging of this campaign highlights the work the organization does to find surplus food and get it into the hands of food banks and those in need.

(Photo courtesy of The Farmlink Project)

More Than Point A to Point B

Reilly says it was important to share the story about how growers end up with surplus and how it ties into the bigger fresh produce supply chain. He also sees it as important to highlight the work Farmlink does.

“What we’re trying to [do], as always, is push the availability and the solution of food rescue as an option for when things like that happen to make sure this stuff doesn’t go to waste,” he says. “It’s not waste until it goes to waste.”

Reilly says that means the growing community needs to be more transparent and open.

“If we can remove some of the taboo around this, then we can make sure the food gets to people who need it,” he says.

Blank also says that this campaign is a nod to the work Farmlink does to make this food rescue possible.

“When you’re talking about commodity-level surplus, there are big questions that FarmLink is always trying to answer,” she says. “‘Where is it? Where does it need to go and how is it going to get there?’ And in order to do that, that takes a lot more than the point A to point B down the road that we’ve become exceptionally good at.”

Blank says that the ultimate goal of raising awareness of this food surplus is for growers to contact Farmlink.

“We want people to know to pick up the phone and call Farmlink when they’re sitting on surplus, because we can make sure that it gets to a community in need,” she says. “We have a very sophisticated and thoughtful infrastructure to do this effectively and efficiently. There’s not a lot of red tape.”

5 Merchandising Tips to Help Retailers Boost Spring Sales

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 20:43:33 GMT

When it comes to potatoes, the spring months bring retailers a full slate of opportunities to drive category sales and grow total basket size. With this in mind, Potatoes USA is sharing practical merchandising strategies retailers can use to capitalize on seasonal occasions ranging from brunches and graduations to grilling season and Mother’s Day.

According to Potatoes USA research based on Circana data, potatoes help drive larger basket sizes across the store. Shopping baskets containing potatoes average about $99, compared to about $50 without, underscoring the category’s ability to lift overall grocery sales.

“The entire spring calendar, all the way through Father’s Day, is packed with food occasions where potatoes fit naturally,” says Nick Bartelme, global retail development manager for Potatoes USA. “For retailers, that creates real opportunities to inspire meal ideas, connect potatoes to the season and capture stronger basket growth.”

Among the merchandising opportunities retailers can activate this spring:

1. Own the Spring Table

Brunch season, Mother’s Day and graduation gatherings all create demand for easy, crowd-pleasing side dishes. Bartelme says retailers can help shoppers picture spring meal solutions by cross-merchandising potatoes with eggs, ham, asparagus and fresh herbs for dishes such as brunch hashes, roasted sides and seasonal salads.

2. Let Color Stop the Cart

Spring shoppers often respond to vibrant displays that reflect the freshness and color of the season. Featuring the full spectrum of potato varieties together in a single display can drive impulse and encourage shoppers to try new types of potatoes for roasting, grilling and salads.

“Shoppers buy with their eyes, especially in spring,” Bartelme says. “When retailers highlight the color and variety of potatoes, it can spark curiosity and encourage trial.”

3. Fire Up Grilling Season

As grills come out in the backyards, retailers can position potatoes near steaks, burgers and chicken to help reinforce must-have grilling sides such as foil packets, grilled wedges and warm potato salads. Memorial Day and Father’s Day present two of the season’s strongest opportunities to promote these grilling solutions.

4. Make Potatoes the Picnic MVP

Warmer weather brings picnics, park gatherings and backyard get-togethers where simple, shareable dishes are in demand. Merchandising potatoes alongside mayonnaise, herbs, scallions and mustard can inspire fresh potato salads and other picnic-ready sides. Secondary displays near deli salads or rotisserie chicken can further reinforce convenient warm-weather meal solutions.

5. Show Potatoes in More Places

Visibility remains one of the most important drivers of potato sales in produce. Retailers following Potatoes USA’s merchandising best practices can see up to a 12% lift in category volume.

“Keeping potatoes visible throughout the department helps shoppers connect them to more meal occasions across the season,” Bartelme says. “Those additional touchpoints can translate into stronger category performance.”

Retailers can access additional merchandising ideas, signage and category resources through the Potatoes USA Retailer Toolkit, available at potatoretailer.com .

Little Potato Co. Launches Spring Campaign

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 20:14:11 GMT

The Little Potato Co. has launched its new seasonal campaign and consumer sweepstakes. Designed to inspire quick, easy meals as the days get longer and busier, the integrated campaign includes digital activations, in-store point-of-sale materials and an online sweepstakes offering prizes for families across the U.S. and Canada.

As part of the promotion, one family in the U.S. and one in Canada will each win a $10,000 travel voucher to use toward a family trip. In addition, 10 winners in each country will receive a $1,000 grocery retailer gift card.

Consumers can enter the sweepstakes by visiting the campaign landing page on thelittlespringtimesweepstakes.com or by scanning the QR code featured on campaign creative and in-store displays.

The company’s spring promotions include its line of bagged Little Potatoes, including Little Yellows and Little Reds, and convenient microwave-ready and oven- or grill-ready kits, such as A Little Hot Honey or A Little Garlic & Parmesan, to help families save time on weeknight dinners with a family-friendly side dish for busy weeknights.

“We know spring is a busy time for families, with longer days and packed schedules,” says Heather Jeffares, vice president of marketing at The Little Potato Co. “Our goal is to make mealtime easier while creating little moments of happiness around the table. With quick-to-prepare Little Potatoes and the chance to win an unforgettable family getaway, this campaign is all about helping families enjoy the season together.”

Potato Sustainability Alliance Implements First Third-Party Verification Process for Growers

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 19:45:15 GMT

The board of directors of the Potato Sustainability Alliance has approved the implementation of a third-party verification process for its PSA Program.

This is the first time PSA has implemented a formal third-party verification process, which will review on-farm assessment responses for accuracy and alignment with reported practices. PSA says a small, randomly selected group of 23 farms was chosen to participate and was notified in January.

PSA says these reviews will take place in early 2026 and are expected to conclude before planting season in most regions.

All enrolled growers who submitted a 2025 on-farm assessment were previously notified that submissions could be selected for review as part of this new verification process. Additional resources to help growers understand and prepare for the process will be shared in advance.

“Participants are asked to provide evidence supporting the management practices reported as implemented in their assessment,” says Natalie Nesburg, PSA program manager. “The type of evidence required varies by question and may include documentation such as records, logs, maps, plans or invoices. In some cases, practices can be visually confirmed during the on-farm visit or verified through a discussion with the grower to better understand how the practice is carried out in operation. A checklist is provided in advance that outlines acceptable forms of evidence and includes examples to help participants prepare.”

PSA says Where Food Comes From, an independent, third-party food verification company, will review the on-farm assessments and conduct impartial reviews that help strengthen program integrity.

“Insights from these visits help strengthen data quality and inform program-level improvements where needed,” Nesburg says.

Nesburg says PSA members and the PSA Program Committee, which is composed of growers, processors, fresh marketers and supply chain partners, helped shape the framework and resources. PSA members also helped shape the third-party verification process.

The verification framework is built on the Syngenta Outcomes in Agriculture Standard, Nesburg says. Growers completed the self-assessment through the Cropwise Sustainability mobile app using primarily yes/no questions. From the responses, growers received a leadership level: essential, basic, medium or high for each criterion.

“The SOA outlines verifiable criteria across six sustainable outcomes: optimal production, water impact, soil health, biodiversity and habitat, human and animal health, and community leadership,” she says. “These include defined drivers of change and specific management practices such as nutrient and pest management, conservation practices, irrigation, regulatory compliance and farm records.”

During verification, the reviewer evaluates the completed self-assessment and conducts a field review to confirm accuracy. Growers receive a PSA guidance document, verification checklist and a summary findings report.

Nesburg says this initial year is focused on implementation, gathering insights and program refinement.

“PSA will use learnings from this first cycle to implement program enhancements for the 2026 assessment and strengthen the framework where needed,” she says. “A summary report of the verification reviews, key findings and recommended improvements will be presented during the 2026 PSA Summer Symposium.”

NoKota Packers Celebrates Decades of History While Modernizing Operations

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 21:09:52 GMT

Buxton, N.D.-based NoKota Packers Inc. had an exciting year of innovation in 2025 on the heels of the company observing its 45^th anniversary, says Carissa Olsen, president and CEO.

The company marked the occasion by launching a new logo that reflects its heritage in the Red River Valley and its commitment to quality and sustainability, she says.

NoKota Packers has also invested in significant equipment upgrades over the past couple of years, Olsen explains. These have included the modernization of a long-serving packing line, adding a robotic palletizer and updating optical sorting equipment.

“These investments boost efficiency, consistency and capacity,” she says.

The firm also is promoting a sustainability initiative that highlights “perfectly good imperfect potatoes” to help reduce food waste while educating consumers about value in produce that doesn’t always meet retail cosmetic standards, Olsen says.

Customers can pick potatoes at the company’s Buxton location that have been deemed unsaleable but are perfectly edible, she says. NoKota Packers donated more than $500 to local food banks from the proceeds of those potatoes in November and December.

“We offer the potatoes at a considerable discount but also note that if customers are unable to pay, they are still welcome to come and pick,” she adds.

On the social media scene, the company has refreshed its Facebook content and added an Instagram profile to help highlight activities in the plant, celebrate employee anniversaries, promote walk-in cash sales and other things being done in and around the community.

Data Shows Potatoes Help Boost the Basket

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 22:33:18 GMT

Denver-based Potatoes USA has discovered new sales data that highlights the vital role fresh potatoes can play in the produce department, says Nick Bartelme, global retail development manager.

“Potatoes USA conducts research and consumer and sales data to unlock opportunities for retailers and shares merchandising and marketing best practices with retailers and potato growers,” he says.

The latest data indicates that in 2025, fresh potato volume increased approximately 1%, led by strong growth in yellow, petite, medley and purple varieties, Bartelme says.

Of the past seven years, 2025 was the best year for fresh potato pounds at retail, except for 2020 during the pandemic, he says. The 2025 fresh potato volume was more than 428 million pounds, topping 2019 levels.

“This shows that potatoes continue to grow in popularity and are an essential part of shoppers’ carts and plates,” Bartelme says.

Consumers who bought fresh potatoes in 2025 made about 11 trips per year, he says, an increase from just over 10.5 trips per year in 2023.

Smaller pack sizes (1-4 pounds), 8-pound packs and tray formats gained share, reflecting a rising demand for specialty varieties and convenient, consumer-ready packaging, Bartelme says.

“Fresh potatoes are a powerhouse in produce, not just because they are America’s favorite vegetable, but because they increase total store sales,” he says.

The average potato shopper’s basket is over $98 compared to a non-fresh-potato shopper’s basket of less than $50, says Bartelme, noting that fresh potatoes almost double the size in the basket.

There’s more: “For every $1 shoppers spend on fresh potatoes, they spend about an additional $25 on other items, showing that fresh potatoes are a foundational produce item on top of which shoppers build their baskets and meals,” he says.

Retailers may request a customized spreadsheet from Potatoes USA where they can input their own purchase frequency and volume numbers to understand how much incremental dollars and volume would mean to their own store operation, Bartelme says.

Potatoes USA also converts consumer and influencer content into resources for retailers to use within their own social media and digital networks to grow sales.

For example, in its biannual Basket Data analysis conducted by Circana, Potatoes USA identified the “Power of One Extra Purchase.”

One additional purchase per year by potato-buying households represents a potential $218 million in incremental sales — approximately 245 million pounds — for retailers, the data found.

“This helps retailers evaluate category growth opportunities within their own operations,” Bartelme says.

Potatoes USA also is developing a new digital resource center to streamline access to category insights and tools for retailers and industry stakeholders, he adds.

“Currently, we provide quarterly and annual retail sales reports, merchandising best practices, consumer path to purchase, basket data analysis, in-store shopper profiles and a retail registered dietitian guide,” Bartelme says.

National Potato Council Backs Aid Package for Growers

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 20:24:27 GMT

The U.S. potato industry, like other commodity sectors, is facing an economic crisis, says Kam Quarles, CEO of the National Potato Council — but the organization is taking steps he hopes will help mitigate that crisis.

The mission of the council is straightforward, he says: “It is standing up for potatoes on Capitol Hill.”

NPC is a national trade association guided by a policy-setting board of 47 growers. It’s supported by a staff based in Washington, D.C.

One of the council’s biggest events of the year, its Washington Summit, concluded in late February.

This year’s summit was scheduled to look at issues like keeping potatoes in federal nutrition programs, promoting free and fair trade agreements and protecting tax policies that support the long-term health of family-owned farming operations.

But one of NPC’s biggest concerns during the current economic crisis is getting a relief package out of USDA and Congress.

A couple of factors have led to the economic challenge for potato growers, Quarles says: a larger-than-average crop that was comparatively more expensive to produce, and more conservative buyers who are reducing their purchases because of the volatile economic landscape.

“It’s creating this kind of perfect economic storm that is engulfing a number of different commodities,” he says.

Financial Impact

Potatoes are the most widely grown vegetable in the U.S., Quarles says.

Assessments have determined that growers of russet potatoes, the most widely grown variety in the U.S., will lose more than half a billion dollars, and growers of all varieties could suffer $780 million in losses, he says.

Quarles thinks USDA and Congress can aid potato growers without having to reinvent the wheel.

COVID-19 sparked “a paradigm shift for the industry” during President Donald Trump’s first administration with the creation of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program 2, or CFAP2, which delivered direct relief to growers, he says.

That was followed by a similar program last July, the Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops Program, or MASC.

“Those worked extremely well for growers,” Quarles says.

Money was distributed efficiently, and safeguards were in place to ensure that no one applied for or received funds for which they were not eligible.

“The specialty crop industry today has rallied around a $5 billion number,” he says, adding that the $5 billion figure has been embraced by both House and Senate agriculture leaders.

“I think they recognize that the need is there, and they’re working to deliver that aid,” Quarles says. “The major effort right now is to try to figure out what to attach that package to in order to get it to the president’s desk for signature.”

Beyond the U.S. Border

So far, it seems the current administration’s policies have generally been favorable for potato exports, though they have been somewhat problematic for imported materials.

“When you look at trade policy, even though there’s been a lot of volatility in trade, our export markets really haven’t seen any retaliation against U.S. potato products,” Quarles says.

However, growers who are sourcing fertilizer or crop-protection tools from foreign markets — or if they are building new packing facilities and sourcing foreign steel or equipment — are seeing those costs go up substantially, he says.

Also, securing the southern border has shrunk the supply of farmworkers for labor-dependent U.S. agriculture, Quarles notes.

“That’s clearly driving up costs and creating inefficiencies,” he says.

Quarles remains optimistic about the future of the U.S. potato industry.

“We’re in very difficult economic times right now, but these economic times will pass, assuming that we can get this temporary ‘bridge’ through a package from the federal government,” he says.

Specialty Potatoes Gain Ground at Retail

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 20:10:23 GMT

While russet potatoes remain a staple in pantries, grower-shippers say consumers are broadening their taste for spuds and taking home some specialty varieties as well.

“Across the category, we’re seeing expanded interest in specialty potatoes, whether that’s colored reds and yellows or smaller potatoes valued for convenience and diverse cooking uses,” says Carissa Olsen, president and CEO of NoKota Packers, Buxton, N.D.

The trend reflects consumers’ desire for variety and restaurant-inspired meals at home as well as retailers marketing specialty potatoes as premium, she says.

“At NoKota Packers, we support these trends by offering a range of sizes and varieties and partnering with Fresh Solutions Network to offer brands like Side Delights to meet specialty demand in multiple bag sizes,” Olsen says.

Buxton, N.D.-based NoKota Packers Inc. tailors its variety offerings to buyer needs, says Carissa Olsen, president/CEO. “The growers had a pretty good growing and harvest season,” Olsen says. “In turn, the quality reflects that. Our red varieties had very good color, and the yellows yielded well.”

(Photo courtesy of NoKota Packers Inc.)

Eric Beck, who serves as director of marketing for Wada Farms Marketing Group LLC in Idaho Falls, Idaho, has observed the same trend.

“We continue to see steady interest in convenience, consistency and value,” he says. “While russets remain a staple, there is ongoing interest in yellow potatoes and select specialty items, particularly when supported with strong merchandising.”

Consumers are seeking dependable quality and easy meal solutions, according to Beck.

“Packaging that communicates usage, flavor profile and value helps drive trial and repeat purchases,” he adds.

Wada Farms’ selection of specialty and value-added potato options includes microwavable Easy Bakers, tray packs, foil-wrapped tray packs and a mini bite-sized potato program branded as Smalls, he says.

Wada Farms Marketing Group LLC, Idaho Falls, Idaho, has made ongoing investments in packing and grading technology to support quality, food safety and pack flexibility, says Eric Beck, director of marketing. The company offers a full lineup of conventional and organic potato varieties, including russets, yellows, reds and chippers, Beck says.

(Photo courtesy of Wada Farms Marketing Group LLC)

Yellow potatoes have experienced steady growth in demand over the past few years at Idaho Falls-based Eagle Eye Produce, says Coleman Oswald, director of sales.

“As prices have come down, retailers have been able to push more volume by expanding pack sizes,” he says, adding that the company has seen a noticeable increase in sales of 8-pound bags.

“We’ve also seen larger potatoes being offered to consumers with new specs, like ‘baker size,’ giving consumers access to restaurant-sized potatoes at home and more options in the potato aisle,” he says.

Some retail customers of Crystal, N.D.-based O.C. Schulz & Sons are reporting an increase in sales of yellow potatoes, says David Moquist, an owner. The company offers yellow and red potatoes exclusively from October through May.

“I believe specialty potato movement would be greater if russets, reds and yellows were priced closer to par,” he says.

Featured Lineups

NoKota Packers tailors its variety offerings to buyer needs, Olsen says.

“This year, we have our standard red and dark red Norlands, and we also have Sangre and Pontiacs for our later-storing red varieties,” she says.

Columba, Miva and Musica are the firm’s primary yellow potato options.

The company typically ships about a 60/40 split of bulk versus consumer packs, she says.

“The growers had a pretty good growing and harvest season,” Olsen says. “In turn, the quality reflects that. Our red varieties had very good color, and the yellows yielded well.”

Wada Farms has made ongoing investments in packing and grading technology to support quality, food safety and pack flexibility, Beck says.

“We continue to refine our branded and private-label programs to align with retailer needs and consumer expectations,” he says.

The company offers a full lineup of conventional and organic potato varieties, including russets, yellows, reds and chippers, Beck adds.

Eagle Eye Produce offers red, yellow and russet varieties out of its Idaho Falls warehouse, “which is a real differentiator for our program,” Oswald says.

“Quality has been great overall this year with a balanced size mix across the board,” he adds.

The company markets potatoes year-round by rotating through key growing areas in the western U.S., he says.

How the Pursuit of Global Markets Is Yielding Results for Potatoes

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 21:39:48 GMT

Exports play a significant role in the U.S. potato industry, and many grower-shippers and trade organizations hope to see that role continue to expand.

Exports currently account for 20% of the U.S. potato crop, according to Denver-based Potatoes USA. U.S. potato export value was $2.3 billion from July 2024 to June 2025, says Nick Bartelme, global retail development manager.

During the 2024-25 market year, U.S. potato exports accounted for 3.1 million metric tons, he says, citing U.S. Department of Commerce figures.

Progress Made in Mexico

Exporters were especially pleased to see the Mexico market completely open to U.S. potatoes in 2022.

“Our potato export program has continued to grow and remains an important part of our overall business,” says Coleman Oswald, director of sales for Eagle Eye Produce, Idaho Falls, Idaho. “We have seen tremendous growth over the past few years in Mexico in particular.”

The U.S. is now moving $135 million a year worth of fresh potatoes into Mexico, says Kam Quarles, CEO of the Washington, D.C.-based National Potato Council.

Mexico surpassed Japan after nationwide market access for U.S. fresh potatoes was fully achieved, he says.

Opportunities Ahead

Quarles says there’s potential for other markets to open, thanks to President Donald Trump’s trade strategy.

“The president’s trade policy has created leverage for negotiations,” he says. “It has driven people to the table that otherwise wouldn’t be there.”

Quarles cites the Feb. 12 signing of the U.S.-Taiwan Agreement on Reciprocal Trade, or ART, which he called “a major victory for the U.S. potato industry.”

ART will eliminate the 15% tariff on fresh potatoes in effect since the mid-1990s as well as tariffs on other potato products that range from 10% to 18%, he says.

The agreement follows months of advocacy by the National Potato Council to ensure potato market access remained a priority for the Trump administration, he says. It now moves to the Taiwan legislature for review and approval and a final technical review process in the U.S.

The U.S. currently exports $110 million worth of potato products to Taiwan, making it the sixth-largest export market for U.S. potato producers, he says. NPC expects that figure to increase significantly because of the new agreement.

And the industry continues to work on market access for fresh potatoes to Japan. That could be an annual $150 million market, more than a 10% increase in the country’s global fresh potato exports, Quarles says.

“Those are not small moves of the needle; those are big turns of the dial in a positive direction for U.S. growers,” he says, adding it would be “a massive tailwind under the U.S. industry.”

On March 11, NPC issued a press release welcoming a bipartisan, bicameral letter sent to President Trump by 68 members of Congress, urging the administration to prioritize opening Japan’s market to U.S. fresh table stock potatoes during Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae’s March 19 visit to the U.S.

Potatoes USA is currently exploring export opportunities in Africa and evaluates market opportunities across the globe annually, Bartelme says. Africa represents an emerging opportunity particularly for U.S. seed potatoes, he adds.

There may be longer-term potential for frozen and dehydrated categories as retail modernization and cold-chain infrastructure expand in select markets, he adds.

Global Business at a Glance

The top U.S. potato export markets are Mexico, Japan, Canada, South Korea, Taiwan and the Philippines, according to Potatoes USA. Potatoes USA conducts market development activities in more than 20 countries, focusing on Mexico, Central America, the Gulf Cooperation Council and Asia, Bartelme says.

Eagle Eye Produce ships potatoes throughout North America, along with select markets across Asia, the Middle East and parts of Central America and the Caribbean, Oswald says.

Russet potatoes make up most of its export business, with occasional demand for yellow potatoes.

“Potatoes USA’s international marketing focuses on the quality, consistency, performance and innovation of U.S. potatoes to give international buyers reasons to buy U.S. potatoes,” Bartelme says.

Side Delights Adds New Flavor-Driven Line

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 22:22:36 GMT

Side Delights has launched its value-added petite potato line, Flavorables, which the company says is designed to meet growing consumer demand for quick, convenient and flavorful side dishes.

Flavorables pairs 1 lb. of petite potatoes with one of four premium dry seasoning blends from Spiceology, a premium flavor innovator known for chef-created unique dry spice blends and fresh-ground ingredients, to create a complete, microwave-ready side dish in just five minutes.

“As part of our commitment to quality and innovation, we are proud to farm the yellow petite potatoes for Flavorables,” says Tiffany Readinger, vice president of sales and category management for the Masser Family of Companies. “We carefully select our petite yellow potatoes for each tray we pack in our Pennsylvania facility. We are laser-focused on the consumer and delivering the freshest product we can, so families don’t need to sacrifice taste for convenience.”

Side Delights says it developed this Flavorables line to tap into consumers’ demand for convenient solutions and feature quick-to-cook potatoes in a recyclable tray and chef-developed seasoning blends, including Greek Freak, Butter-licious Garlic & Herb, Cheese Pizza, and Garlic Parmesan.

“Restaurant data continues to show strong consumer interest in Mediterranean flavors, indulgent cheese-forward dishes and garlic-centric profiles,” says Darby McLean, CEO of Spiceology. “Flavorables will translate these trends into an accessible retail format with our ground-fresh seasonings with no artificial flavors or fillers.”

Side Delights says Flavorables offer retailers value-added pricing, expanded usage occasions beyond traditional potato preparation and strong cross-merchandising opportunities with proteins and center-store items. The line is designed to appeal to families, busy consumers and flavor-curious shoppers looking for fast, satisfying meal solutions.

Side Delights says it offers eye-catching digital assets, merchandising and promotional assets to drive awareness, trial and repeat purchase of this new line.

“Flavorables was created to make potatoes quicker to prepare while delivering the bold flavors consumers are seeking on restaurant menus,” says Kathleen Triou, president and CEO of Fresh Solutions Network. “Consumer research consistently shows that potato buyers over-index for convenience and seek products that reduce prep time without sacrificing flavor or variety, and we’re giving retailers a turn-key side dish solution that drives convenience, excitement and incremental growth.”

Shopper Search Trends Reveal Fresh Opportunities for Retailers

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 16:58:49 GMT

Consumers’ online search behavior around potatoes is revealing new opportunities for retailers in-store, from cross-purchase and merchandising to meal solutions and at-home snacking. New analysis from Potatoes USA shows how sustained search interest in potato recipes, preparation ideas and entertaining formats is translating into clear opportunities retailers can activate now.

Potatoes are already America’s favorite vegetable, with shoppers purchasing more than 15.3 billion pounds annually, according to the organization. By examining where consumer interest about potatoes leads online, Potatoes USA identified several emerging search trends that point to how shoppers are planning meals, entertaining and preparing snacks at home, as well as how retailers can meet that demand.

Starbucks-Inspired Dish Creates Cross-Purchase Opportunities

Retailer insight: Google search data shows shoppers are looking to recreate an iconic Starbucks snack bite at home, creating opportunities for retailers to drive cross-purchase and inspire meal solutions.

According to Google Trends, searches for “Starbucks Potato Chive Bake recipe” are up 1,100% over the past two years, following the item’s introduction to Starbucks’ menu.

Retailers can lean into this interest with in-store recipe cards ( see Potatoes USA’s version here ), online click-to-cart bundles or cross-merchandising potatoes with complementary items such as eggs, cottage cheese, herbs and greens. The concept can also be adapted for prepared foods or grab-and-go sections with a house-made take on the popular dish.

Capitalizing on ChatGPT’s Preferred Chips Recipe

Retailer insight: Understanding how ChatGPT responds to common potato chip queries can help retailers anticipate the products and tools shoppers may seek when making chips at home.

ChatGPT has become a destination not only for recipe inspiration but also for conversational guidance around cooking techniques that shoppers may not find in a traditional recipe. According to SEMrush data, “how to make potato chips recipe” is among the most likely trending queries.

When prompted, ChatGPT’s most common response outlines a consistent preparation method: thinly sliced russet potatoes fried in vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven, seasoned kosher salt and aided with a deep-fry thermometer.

For retailers, ChatGPT’s preferred recipe flow reveals a clear opportunity to merchandise a complete chips-at-home solution. Pairing russet potatoes with cooking oil, kosher salt, peelers and thermometers — supported by shoppable recipes, click-to-cart bundles or in-store signage — can help retailers capture incremental sales, particularly around snack-forward moments like game day.

Baked Potato Bars Emerge as a Value-Forward Dining Occasion

Retailer insight: Growing search interest in baked potato bars presents retailers with a customizable, budget-friendly hosting solution that can be merchandised as a complete meal kit for gatherings and celebrations.

Google Trends also points to baked potato bars as an emerging trend, signaling shopper interest in meals that are affordable, easy to prepare, visually appealing and adaptable to different tastes and dietary preferences.

With spring holiday get-togethers approaching, retailers can take advantage of this growing interest by merchandising baked potato bar kits that bring together potatoes with toppings, proteins and sides into one cohesive in-store or online display.

“When shoppers purchase potatoes, they open the door to countless ways to prepare and enjoy them at home,” says Nick Bartelme, global retail development manager for Potatoes USA. “By examining where potato curiosity leads online, we identified clear opportunities for retailers to tap into that interest and, in some cases, turn one potato purchase into two.”

For additional data and insights into shoppers’ interest in potatoes, visit PotatoRetailer.com .

National Potato Council Elects Ben Sklarczyk as 2026 President

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 22:58:28 GMT

The National Potato Council welcomed its 2026 roster of executive committee leaders at the organization’s annual NPC Washington Summit on Feb. 23. The same day, Ben Sklarczyk of Johannesburg, Mich., was elected during NPC’s annual meeting of voting delegates to serve as the council’s president for the next 12 months.

Sklarczyk is a third-generation grower and owner of Sklarczyk Seed Farm, a hydroponic seed potato operation based in his hometown of Johannesburg. Sklarczyk assumed full ownership of the family business 10 years ago, when he and his wife, Alison, purchased it from his father, Don Sklarczyk, who served as president of NPC in 2007.

Sklarczyk’s path to the family business was not immediate, NPC says. Though he grew up working on the farm’s row crop side, he initially pursued a degree in mechanical engineering at Western Michigan University. But a realization during his first semester led him to transfer to Michigan State University, where he graduated December 2003 with a degree focused on agriculture.

A longtime advocate for the industry, Sklarczyk has been involved with NPC since the early 2000s and joined the NPC board of directors in 2010. Before being elected president for 2026, he served nearly a decade on the executive committee, holding various leadership roles, including first vice president, vice president of grower outreach and industry research, vice president of environmental affairs and vice president of finance.

“Our 2026 agenda will focus on capitalizing on new federal dietary guidelines to promote potatoes as a staple of good health, ensuring fair trade practices for U.S. potatoes globally, and removing nontariff trade barriers,” Sklarczyk says. “I also want to emphasize the importance of grower engagement with state and federal representatives to ensure the industry’s voice is heard in policymaking.”

Sklarczyk and his wife, who serves on the Potatoes USA board of directors, reside in Michigan with their two children, Morgan and Dane.

The full NPC executive committee roster includes:

President — Ben Sklarczyk (Johannesburg, Mich.)
First vice president and vice president of legislative affairs — Dean Gibson (Paul, Idaho)
Vice president of environmental affairs — Chris Olsen (Othello, Wash.)
Vice president of finance — Greg Harris (Boardman, Ore.)
Vice president of grower outreach and industry research — TJ Hall (Hoople, N.D.)
Vice president of trade affairs — Brett Jensen (Idaho Falls, Idaho)
Immediate past president — Ted Tschirky (Pasco, Wash.)

As a grower-led organization, NPC is managed by an executive committee and board of directors, which oversees its operations and provides guidance on its policy activities. Board members are appointed by the delegates at the annual meeting from recommendations submitted by state potato grower organizations and hold office for one calendar year.

NPC says it protects potato growers’ interests in Washington, D.C., by addressing issues that affect the potato industry, from policy issues debated in Congress to regulatory issues proposed by federal agencies.

The 2026 NPC Washington Summit is a forum for potato industry members to discuss, define and advocate for the policy priorities impacting their businesses and protecting their ability to farm. From Feb. 23-26, growers and industry stakeholders met with members of Congress and the administration to advocate for issues such as keeping potatoes in federal nutrition programs, promoting free and fair trade agreements, and investing in research to support the long-term health of the U.S. potato industry.

The Illinois Farm Family Who Inspired Lay’s ‘Last Harvest’ Super Bowl Commercial

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 19:51:34 GMT

It was a one-minute spot that captured hearts on Super Bowl Sunday. Lay’s “Last Harvest” commercial told the story of a farm family passing the torch from one generation to the next, rooted in memories, hard work and the bond between parent and child.

While the story in the Super Bowl ad was fictional, it was inspired by the real-life experiences of third-generation potato producer Tom Neumiller and his daughter Katie Floming, the fourth generation working alongside him at Neumiller Farms in Savanna, Ill.

A Story That Hits Home

Floming, operations manager at Neumiller Farms, recalls watching the commercial for the first time.

“I was so touched. It really hit home for me,” she says. “Growing up, if I wanted to see my parents, I had to go to the farm because they were always working. That’s where we spent our family time, quick meals, then back to work. I loved it. There are no complaints there. Being present at the farm was everything.”

The commercial’s depiction of a young girl chasing her parents through potato fields and learning the ropes mirrored Katie’s own childhood experiences. She laughs as she recalls one particular scene.

“When she came outside wearing white tennis shoes to work, that hit home. I remember showing up in sandals, and my dad would just shake his head. I had to go home and change,” Floming says..

For Neumiller, seeing their family’s life portrayed on such a massive stage was humbling.

“Farmers don’t usually end up in Super Bowl commercials, but this is very nice,” he says. “For that one-minute ad, they captured a farm family and our legacy all in one. It was just amazing.”

Floming adds that the story resonated with many viewers beyond their family.

“It’s very relatable. People would come up at the Super Bowl and say, ‘My grandfather was in that situation’ or ‘My family didn’t have the option to pass it on.’ It’s a story that connects with most people,” she says.

Farming in Northern Illinois: Unique Challenges

Neumiller Farms isn’t a typical potato operation. Neumiller explains growing potatoes in northern Illinois requires creativity, considering they are the lone family growing potatoes in northern Illinois.

“We’re the only ones in the area,” Neumiller says. “You need good water and light, sandy soil. Illinois has pockets of sand, so we’ve become a very mobile farm. We have one farm 150 miles away, another 30 miles south and another 15 miles north. It allows us to manage the light soils and adequate water we need.”

Floming now manages daily operations, but Neumiller remains deeply involved.

“I’m old school. I want to be involved in everything,” he says. “I talk to the managers every day. I get here early and stay around, maybe too long, but I stay involved in everything.”

The family works side by side, literally.

Floming says: “Our desks are right next to each other. We’re constantly feeding off each other, and we always know what’s going on.”

Neumiller smiles, adding: “My wife’s on the other side, and we’ve been married 54 years. She’s been involved in the business from way back.”

“He doesn’t get a break,” Floming quips.

Passing the Torch

Though Neumiller hopes for a few more harvests, Floming embraces the responsibility of continuing the family legacy.

“I’m very thankful to still be farming alongside my dad,” she says. “He’s grown the farm, but it’s my responsibility to keep it going, for our family, our employees and our community. I want to do the best I can to preserve our foundation while building for the future.”

A plaque on the wall of Neumiller Farms signifies seven decades of producing potatoes for Frito-Lay, a partnership that made their story perfect for Lay’s Super Bowl spotlight.

Neumiller reflects on the broader significance: “All of us farmers, we’re not usually in the spotlight. But it’s an honor to show the connection between soil, farming and the food we produce. Sustainability, passing on the farm, doing the job right — it all matters. Our story continues, and that’s what I hope to pass on.”

A Last Harvest That Connected Us All

As Lay’s “Last Harvest” reminded viewers on Super Bowl Sunday, the foods we enjoy come from real families working the land, generation after generation. For the Neumillers, that legacy is alive and thriving, one potato at a time, creating a story that connected us all.

If you thought the 60-second commercial was memorable, watch the full three-minute version on Lay’s YouTube page .

2026 Top Producer of the Year: Alsum Farms and Produce

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 13:35:34 GMT

The work never stops at Alsum Farms and Produce in Friesland, Wis., as the team packs potatoes of all sorts and sizes, preparing to ship them to grocers across the country.

“The company is 52 years old, and we’re very proud of that history,” says Larry Alsum, owner and CEO. “We started out repacking potatoes and onions as a small business that was literally a pickup truck and garage startup.”

Today, the company moves millions of pounds of produce a year.

For its success in the business of agriculture, Alsum Farms and Produce was named the 2026 Top Producer of the Year. Recognized at the 2026 Top Producer Summit , the award, sponsored by BASF and Fendt, is based on entrepreneurial originality, business progress and leadership. Congratulations to the Alsum family as well as the 2026 Top Producer of the Year award finalists, Dalton Farms and Splitter Farms .

Building the Business

Alsum has been part of the operation for 45 years after leaving a public accounting job to take the reins following the death of his cousin, who died in a small plane crash.

“It took me about a month, a lot of prayer, a lot of soul searching about what my future was going to look like and searching for what God wanted me to do,” Alsum remembers.

Ultimately, he and his family moved home, near the dairy farm he grew up on, to try his hand at something new. His new job meant running a business that bought 100 lb. bags of potatoes and onions and repacked them into smaller bags for grocery stores.

“The first couple of years were rough, and I had a lot to learn,” Alsum says. “We survived, and as we grew, I saw opportunities to do things differently.”

Larry Alsum grew up on a nearby dairy farm but got a degree in accounting before returning to the operation.

(Clinton Griffiths)

Always willing to learn and try something new, the business continues to evolve today. The operation not only packs, but it also washes, sorts and sells to a number of grocers like Costco Wholesale. They also farm and grow their own produce, including several hundred acres of pumpkins.

“In 2020, some land became available for sale, and so as part of that we were able to purchase a pumpkin packing shed,” Heidi Alsum-Randall says. “Diversification is key for any business.”

Randall and her sister, Wendy Alsum-Dykstra, help run this business with their father. Together, they share the chief operating officer role.

“My siblings and I all grew up working in the family business,” Dykstra adds. “We all held a variety of jobs. My brothers did some of the lawn mowing. We all did some potato grading.”

It’s been a lifetime of experience they’re now putting to use, working alongside their father to build toward the future.

“We are growing, but we’re a relatively small business in a very small community,” Dykstra says. “We employ many people we know, many people in our local communities, some relatives and friends. It’s a great place to work.”

“Without the 200-plus employees, we wouldn’t be in business,” Randall echoes. “That piece of making sure that we’re treating our people right and fairly, that we are caring about their overall health and wellness, is a big thing for us as an organization.”

Harnessing AI and High-Tech Innovation

More recently, that workforce is getting help from high-tech hands. Artificial intelligence is now sizing and sorting produce, which is improving both speed and efficiency.

“A lot of the jobs that we need today weren’t even in existence five or 10 years ago,” Randall says. “So, it is really changing how we operate and do things.”

Alsum Farms and Produce has recently installed AI-powered sorting to help with speed and efficiency.

(Clinton Griffiths)

“Technology can be challenging,” Dykstra adds. “Change can be a challenge. I think getting our team on board, embracing the newest technology, embracing change, embracing new software that helps us process information in a better way, has been both a challenge and an opportunity.”

Even as technology grabs a seat at the table, the picture of this business to consumers is its heartfelt connection to the farm. Alsum continues to be the face of the brand.

“The average consumer doesn’t really know where their food comes from, and so we wanted to show there’s a farmer, there’s land and fields involved in the process,” he explains. “It’s very important for the consumer to understand that their food is grown in a very safe, very high-quality way.”

As they drive forward, this focused family hasn’t forgotten the years of tough times and tight margins.

“If I can help a farmer, if I could help a customer and add value to the whole process, that’s what I’ve always felt was our opportunity to grow the business,” Alsum says.

Alsum Farms and Produce washes and sorts millions of pounds of potatoes in a year.

(Clinton Griffiths)

Growers Moving Global Markets: Meet the 2026 Potato Person of the Year

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 00:03:58 GMT

Jared Balcom, a fourth-generation potato grower from Pasco, Wash., is no stranger to the international stage. The Packer and the National Potato Council recently recognized Balcom, president of Balcom & Moe, as the 2026 Potato Person of the Year for his instrumental role in advocating for the industry.

He has served as the vice president of trade affairs for the National Potato Council as well as its former president.

Balcom helped advocate for the U.S. potato industry and played a role in helping open the Mexican market to U.S. fresh potatoes in 2022. He is also a part of the U.S. contingency pushing to gain access for U.S. fresh potatoes in Japan.

He was appointed in 2025 by then-U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack and then-U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai reappointed him to the Agricultural Policy Advisory Committee, where he provides counsel to federal officials on international trade policy.

Balcolm sat down with The Packer to talk about the importance of advocating for the U.S. potato industry.

The “Farmer First” Strategy for Global Trade

Balcom says being a fourth-generation grower helps put these trade issues in perspective, where he says he takes humility and honesty with him on these trade calls and missions.

“It doesn’t matter what country you’re from or whatever, as long as you’re real and honest and have normal dialogue with people, you can get a lot done,” he says.

Balcom, who first became active with the National Potato Council’s Potato LEAF Leadership Institute, says there wasn’t one moment that pointed him toward this national-level advocacy, but more a sense that it was important to share with decision-makers real farm experiences.

“I think that on the farm we get to see things firsthand,” he says. “We get to see those challenges, and we’re able to convey those in a reasonable, good manner to people at the national level to help us. We have that on-farm experience. I just felt that if I could do that, it would benefit everybody. And I really enjoy being a part of some of those conversations and being able to add to that.”

Being in high-level trade and market discussions might seem intimidating, but Balcom says he sees being in those rooms as a chance to create some opportunities and benefits for the entire potato industry.

“I think you just go in and you get a feel for what can benefit the industry long term and what would help us, and you just take that and carry that message forward,” he says. “What benefits my neighbor, what benefits growers in Idaho, that has a direct effect on what benefits us in Washington. Those state lines don’t mean a lot. If you can create a market for one state, that helps the other state too … You’re trying to help everybody, and knowing that little wins here and there might affect one person, but there’s going to be a side effect that is beneficial.”

Patience as a Policy Tool

Balcom says that while trade negotiations can be a slow, tedious process when he’s in the trade negotiations, patience is key. He says he remembers the goal and that even if there’s political or governmental interference, remaining focused and dedicated to the task at hand is imperative.

“I’ve learned as I’ve gotten older not to get as frustrated because you realize that it is a long, long, long process,” he says. “Some of these things are lifetime processes. Mexico is a prime example. We’ve been involved since I got out of college, and it took that long — 25 years — to get anywhere. So, you just have to do a lot of patience and just stay true, stay on the same topic the whole time and don’t waver.”

And for the growers back home who aren’t in the negotiations and who might see relief as being slow, Balcom says it’s important to remember the small wins. He also says for those growers who really are unhappy with the pace of change, there’s one easy solution

“If they’re really frustrated about it, I tell them get on a plane and get out there,” he says. “You can see it firsthand and see what it’s really like … I just always say that we’re trying to get small wins at a time for the big picture, and it’s going to take time. We have administrative changes. We have commerce men and women that change all the time. And so, you just have to keep hammering at it and go slow. And it’s just going to take that much time.”

Why Growers Hold the Expertise in D.C.

While some growers might not see themselves as fit to advocate for policy changes, Balcom says it’s important to remember that as a grower, you are an expert.

“I will tell you a little secret,” he says. “When you walk into a congressman’s room or a congresswoman’s room or a senator’s, you are smarter than they are. They want to pretend that they know it, but they don’t. Just go in there and you state your case in a very polite way.”

And yes, a grower might be nervous, but Balcom says speaking the truth goes a long way.

“Know what you know and say what you know and don’t make stuff up, and it’s amazing how far you’ll get with that,” he says. “And there’s nobody in here that can’t go do that.”

A Stronger, Unified Voice for the Future

As for the future of the potato industry in the U.S., Balcom says he’s seen a change in his 20-plus years on the national stage. He says the U.S. industry was much more divided in the past, but the industry has come together to work together.

“I think we have a stronger voice back now in D.C. and the political world, and I just hope that that continues to grow,” he says. “I think we’re more successful for a small group of potatoes. We’re probably punching way over our weight class right now, and I hope that just continues and continues.”

Balcom also says he wants to see the industry to continue to be successful and for the next generation of potato industry leadership to continue the legacy.

“I hope the next generation takes that on and continues to go down that path, and I think we’ll be very successful,” he says.

Specialty Crops Suffered Staggering Economic Losses in 2025, Will Relief Come in Time?

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 22:27:23 GMT

Economic losses to specialty crops last year were on a level that can put farming operations out of business.

The American Farm Bureau Federation estimates $3.6 billion in economic losses for almonds, $1.4 billion for apples, $763 million for lettuce, and $717 million for potatoes alone.

Specialty crop leaders this week renewed their calls for urgent economic support for U.S. growers and shared their disappointment after the U.S. House released final spending bills Jan. 20 that did not include aid for American specialty crop producers.

While the Specialty Crops Farm Bill Alliance (SCFBA) says specialty crops, including fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, nursery, greenhouse and floriculture products, generate more than $75 billion annually in U.S. agricultural cash receipts, account for more than one-third of all U.S. crop sales and support rural economies nationwide, under the current USDA Farmer Bridge Assistance program, $11 billion is allocated to row crops, and only $1 billion is reserved for specialty crops and other commodities, with key details on eligibility, payment and timing still unresolved.

“It’s a challenge with specialty crops to come up with aggregated data across all the more than 300 different commodities, but the American Farm Bureau Federation has done good analysis related to specialty crops,” says Kam Quarles, CEO of the National Potato Council and SCFBA co-chair.

“Effectively Farm Bureau is saying that if you’re going to have a relief plan rollout, specialty crops should be about a third of whatever Congress spits out,” he says.

Word on Capitol Hill is Congress is contemplating a total of $15 billion in assistance, SCFBA says.

“We agree with the one-third of whatever Congress comes up with, but also the package has to be large enough to make a material impact,” Quarles says. “The specialty crop industry has told Congress that we need no less than $5 billion in economic relief for specialty crops in order to positively move the needle for growers.

With food affordability still a top focus for many consumers, what happens to the cost of fruits, vegetables and other grocery staples if specialty crops don’t receive the aid they desperately need?

“We’re facing an unprecedented economic crisis in the U.S. right now for agriculture, and it’s not just specialty crops, it’s broader than that,” Quarles says. “If you have growers that are going out of business due to this economic crisis, that’s going to further impact supplies of commodities. It’s going to impact prices, and it will add to the affordability issue.”

Last week SCFBA joined American Farm Bureau Federation and ag organizations across the U.S. in penning a letter to Congress highlighting record-high input costs, labor shortages, weather challenges and historically low market prices that have caused farmers to face negative margins and nearly $100 billion in losses nationwide.

Reasons for Optimism

Quarles says feedback from both the House and Senate appropriations committees on the specialty crop crisis has been encouraging.

“They absolutely understand where we’re coming from,” he says. “The other thing to remember is that there have been fundamental changes in tax policy that were put into law last summer, and they’ve already started to come online. And when some of the trade agreements that have been discussed are finalized, they also could create a more competitive environment, along with the tax policy.”

But could this be a case of too little, too late?

“These policy recommendations could create a much better environment in the future, but if you’re out of business before you ever get to that better environment, it just doesn’t matter,” Quarles says. “So that’s the imperative of this economic relief; we need a short-term safety net or a bridge, whatever you want to call it, to get producers from this crisis into an area where they can start to take advantage of some of these changes.”

Another bright spot, he says, is how effectively the industry, along with he and his SCFBA co-chairs, including Cathy Burns, CEO of the International Fresh Produce Association; Mike Joyner, president of the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association; and Dave Puglia, president and CEO of Western Growers, are working together.

“The industry has really rallied together under the umbrella of the Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance,” Quarles says. “Twenty years ago, this was not the way the industry worked, but the alliance has created a kind of muscle memory, where we know how to all get around the table. We know how to look at a particular situation, develop a strategy, and then everybody disperses out to where they have strengths across the United States.”

“It has really been the best of the fresh produce industry rallying together to try to get some relief for our grower members,” he continues. “I’m very hopeful that we’re going to get something positive done here.”

Potato Industry Road Map Eyes Billion-Dollar Export Growth

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 02:48:41 GMT

DALLAS — Kam Quarles, CEO of the National Potato Council, kicked off a session at Potato Expo 2026 on international openings for U.S. potatoes, stating that the trade situation in the U.S. is a critical part of the potato industry, though it’s not without its opportunities and challenges.

Quarles says challenges include the impact of tariffs on growers’ fertilizer, pesticide, new or renovated storage facilities, equipment from overseas and more.

“The opportunities would come in being able to decrease some of the friction for our exports, either in processed potatoes, primarily when you’re thinking of tariffs, nontariff barriers into some of our key export markets or possibly gaining new export markets,” he says.

Strategy of Friction and Leverage

Matt Lantz, senior vice president of global access with global trade consulting firm Bryant Christie, joined Quarles. Lantz says he did some quick numbers to calculate the benefits of some of the expanded markets for potatoes. He estimated that with this “back of the envelope” trade runs, U.S. exports of fresh potatoes to Mexico have increased 162% since opening the market, which went from $51 million to $134 million annually.

“We often say any potato outside the market in the U.S. is a good potato,” Lantz says. “So, that’s left the U.S. to another market, and that was hard to achieve over 20 years, and it was a nice conservative partner.”

Fry exports to Mexico, too, have increased by 130% to become a $319 million fry market.

Though isn’t open for fresh potatoes, Japan has been open for chipping potatoes for 20 years. While there’s only two factories in Japan, it’s been a $20 million to $25 million market. Lantz says his estimations show that the market is up 65% through September.

“This is why Japan is such a priority for us; opening the fresh market for Japan could be Mexico revisited, if not more,” he says. “It’s a very high-end market, and we think it’s a new $150 million market for fresh produce, in addition to chip produce.”

U.S. fry exports to Japan hit $422 million last year and are up 37% over six years ago, Lantz says, noting that 2019 figures are a more normal year to set a baseline.

“You would think we’ve maxed out Japan, and in six years we’ve grown it by 37%,” he says. “It’s going to be a half-billion-dollar market in the next couple of years.”

Korea also has been a great opportunity for growers, Lantz says, noting the Korean Free Trade Agreement helped get duties down and now exports are up 16% at $125 million.

Lantz says there’s opportunities for growth, especially in Vietnam, which is now under a 13% tariff, and the Philippines, with a 10% tariff. He estimates the potential for growth is high in the Philippines.

“For a while, we had zero duties in the Philippines, and our exports went from about 30 million to about 60 million,” he says.

Lantz says within the global market, it’s critical the U.S. potato industry continues to monitor the impact of tariffs and trade.

“We have had to work every day to make sure that we are not affected by tariffs we put on another country and [get] a retaliation,” he says.

Defending Market Access

Quarles addressed the benefits of U.S.–Mexico–Canada Agreement, which is up for review this year.

“Is it perfect? No, but you wouldn’t have the USMCA but for that tariff leverage,” he says.

Lantz says it’s important not only to maintain zero duties on exports to Mexico and Canada but also to use the USMCA reevaluation as an opportunity to improve areas of friction within the agreement.

“I will tell you that the Europeans who are aggressive exporters on the rise have gotten a zero duty in Mexico, and we certainly do not want to see Mexico [add duties to U.S. exports],” he says. “It’s a recipe for Canadian fries to just to go straight from the U.S., through the U.S. and supply Mexico.

Lantz says it took a long time to get the Mexican market open, first having to go to the Mexican Supreme Court. A challenge, though, is the market is under pressure from Mexican growers to close it again. Lantz says a frequent argument is that U.S. growers send too many products with pests down, however, he says it’s been contentious with potato mop-top virus.

“An international panel in 2010 reviewed all possible pests between the United States and Mexico,” Lantz says. “And they concluded that no virus is relevant in exports. The challenge we had in order to open the market: The Mexican government insisted on this virus being put into the agreement. They would not sign the agreement unless this virus was imposed. And we knew if they put it in there, they were going to find it. And we knew it was going to be used to try to limit our exports.”

Lantz says it’s been a lot of work to prove to the Mexican government that U.S. exports to Mexico are clean with science-based evidence. He says Mexican buyers have been pleased with shipments.

One challenge, Lantz says, is that growers export in 20-pound bags, but there is interest in expanding to bulk or larger bags.

“We are pushing very hard for that in these negotiations,” he says. “We’ll probably start with 50-pound bags, because it allows you to continue to trace back. There’s no argument against it, essentially. And then we’ll try to move on to bulk shipping.”

Quarles says the work from state grower associations, as well as Potatoes USA, has been instrumental in opening Mexico.

“Mexico’s incredibly important partner for the United States,” he says. “We want to similarly see that as a strong, durable, reliable market for the U.S. as well as for Mexican consumers. So, getting all of this right is one of our ongoing challenges.”

Lantz says the potential to open the Japan fresh potato market would be huge, noting the U.S. potato industry has been working on a pest risk assessment for more than a decade. Lantz says it has been a political issue and one he hopes will be resolved within a year or two. He adds that he sees this following a similar path to chipping potatoes.

“It’s a political issue, and we just have to find the right key to move the Japanese government to open this market,” Lantz says. “Once they make that decision, we will roll it through the rest of the questions within a year, and we’ll get that market open.

“It was always said to me that rice is so sensitive that you might have a chance at potatoes, but rice is so imperative,” he says. “Guess what? Rice is in. That was in the agreement this summer. The reason rice is in is for food security. And so, they made agreements to allow rice to come in. And so, if they can do what was the third rail of ag exports to Japan, they can make a decision to get potatoes in Japan.”

Emerging Frontiers: From Korea to West Africa

Lantz went through a few other opportunities for U.S. exports. Korea, he says, will likely open for some additional states, which he thinks will come sometime later this year. The market in China is open, he says, but it’s been harder to get the product to a processor.

“We’ve been working on this for about five years,” Lantz says. “The relationship with China is very strained right now. The market is open; we haven’t signed a deal yet. It’s just a matter of finding that [processor].”

Lantz says there has been interest in opening Senegal, Mali and the West African markets for seed potatoes, adding that Potatoes USA has been working to develop those markets.

“So, we’re hoping to develop a new, completely new market for U.S. seed potatoes there,” he says.

How the MAHA Effect Could Impact the Potato Industry Under New Federal Guidelines

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 11:44:34 GMT

DALLAS — It was a timely presentation at Potato Expo 2026 when National Potato Council CEO Kam Quarles and Beth Johnson, CEO and founder of Food Directions, a Washington D.C.-based government relations and food policy consulting firm, took the stage to analyze the new federal nutrition guidelines released earlier that day.

Johnson says the overall impact of these new dietary guidelines on the potato industry is relatively positive, despite some emerging challenges. She credited this success largely to the proactive efforts of the National Potato Council and Potatoes USA to ensure the potato maintained its critical classification as a vegetable.

“We want to make sure that we get those policies right to maintain the competitive advantage for U.S. potato growers,” Quarles says.

Unprecedented Speed in Food Policy

Johnson says one thing to remember is just how active the Make America Healthy Again group has been.

She put into perspective that the MAHA commission began in February 2025 and, by May, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. had already announced removing petroleum-based dyes from food. The commission’s first assessment focused on ultra-processed foods. Then the USDA worked with states to remove sugar-sweetened beverages from the food permitted under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.

Johnson says that while this is President Donald Trump’s second term, what MAHA has accomplished within a year has been remarkable.

“We just don’t see food policy action like that,” she says. “It’s not typical, and we do anticipate that this is going to continue at least through 2026, at least through the midterms.”

Securing the ‘Vegetable’ Label

Johnson says that as part of the lead-up to these new dietary guidelines, the potato industry had focused strongly on the importance of the potato staying in the vegetable category. Another focus was on increasing potato and vegetable consumption, not decreasing it. And with the new dietary guidelines, she says it’s even more important.

“We were worried about how it would be looked at in regards to refined carbohydrates, starch, etc.,” she says. “Given the outcome of this particular dietary guidelines … the focus on grains has gone from high to extremely low. So, now the way that the graphic is, it’s protein and vegetables and then grains at the very tip.”

Johnson lauds the industry’s work to promote the potato’s benefits and place in the vegetable category as a big success. She also points out that a white potato is a prominent part of the graphics for the new dietary guidelines.

“They do talk about eating a variety of vegetables, nutrient-dense vegetables,” she says. “So, a vegetable is a vegetable now, whether it’s green or yellow or blue or starchy or whatever it is, and the recommendation is for three servings of vegetables a day.”

These guidelines, Johnson says, really emphasize whole foods.

“They speak quite a bit about the problems associated with highly processed foods,” she says. “They don’t actually define highly processed or ultra-processed, but they lean into it a bit, I would say and note the markers of how they would look at that as extracted ingredients, packaging materials, chemical additives, refined carbohydrates and added sugars.”

With that understanding, there might be some challenges in how processed potato products will be looked at, Johnson says. The new guidelines focus on glycemic index, and vegetables do not fall under that scrutiny, but she says it’s something she and her team will continue to monitor to ensure the focus remains on added sugar.

“We’re going to fight hard to make sure that those are maintained in a school meals program and government procurement programs,” she says.

Johnson says what will be interesting to follow is how these guidelines will play into school meal programs, SNAP and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, also known as WIC.

Quarles pointed to an effort during the Obama administration to eliminate potatoes in school meals. He says the contrast between then and the new dietary guidelines announcement is positive momentum. He points to how school nutritionists helped vocalize how vital a potato is in school meals.

Bipartisan MAHA Race and Midterm Outlook

“Agriculture is the MAHA movement,” Quarles says. “There is a very important thread running through the MAHA movement that we want to make Americans of all ages more healthy. There are nutritional problems with our population, but you want to do it in a common-sense, science-based way. It can’t just be the loudest voice on social media who’s making policy. It needs to have a background of nutrition science and things that are implementable to folks in the schools and in senior feeding programs.”

Johnson says another thing for the potato industry to keep an eye on is what happens in the states. With midterm elections in 2026, she sees both parties looking to capture the MAHA vote.

“It really is kind of a fight to see which party can out MAHA the other one,” she says. “We’ve got a lot of Democratic governors that are interested in taking some of these things on so that they can show and they can try to win those MAHA votes as well in 2026.”

Next Battleground is Defining Ultra-Processed Foods

Quarles asked Johnson to expand more on the move to define ultra-processed foods. The effort at the federal level is to hopefully create some sort of uniform standard of definition, she says, as states such as California have already begun efforts to define ultra-processed foods. She suspects other states will follow a similar path. Johnson says she anticipates a definition at the federal level to come in the next six to nine months.

“In all likelihood, it’s going to be the extra additives, high salt, high sugar, that we’re going to have to be looking at,” she says.

That definition would likely play out in updates to the school meal regulations, WIC requirements and SNAP-eligible foods, though Johnson says it might be a challenge to work through all the whole foods within a school lunch.

Quarles asked Johnson about the likelihood that the MAHA commission would classify a derivative of potatoes made from three ingredients that could be produced in a home kitchen as an ultra-processed food.

“If we’re talking potato, salt and oil, I think this is going to be difficult for the administration, for those in charge, for those who already have an opinion of what is an ultra-processed food, including snacks. … I think it is going to be a challenge for them to be able to figure out how to set the definition so that it incorporates things with very few ingredients that could be made in your home,” she says.

Johnson says the administration’s goal is to change the diet, but that is a long-term process and more research is needed. She says those in the administration say it’s a 10-to-15-year goal.

“I was on another call where they said that they’re hoping to complete the next round of dietary guidelines before the Trump administration leaves,” she says.

Check Out a Free Source for Valuable Insight on Potatoes

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 17:06:42 GMT

“This is a wonderful book. You really have to read it!”

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard that statement. Sometimes it happens after a speaker wraps up at a function when they’re hawking their book in in the back of the room. (At a reasonable price, of course.)

Other times it is at business gatherings. At the International Fresh Produce Association’s annual Global Produce and Floral Show, for example, I ran into at least one (or several) acquaintances in conversations who brought up their latest inspiration, something they’re pushing me to read. (And buy first, of course.) It’s an awkward moment, isn’t it? Many times, the quality falls flat.

Well, friends and neighbors, I have a gem of a fresh produce book to recommend — for free.

It was written by my previous boss, friend and mentor at the Idaho Potato Commission, Don Odiorne. He was the vice president in charge of foodservice there for 30 years. In his role, Don came up with numerous creative marketing ideas to help promote the multibillion-dollar Idaho potato crop each year. Quite the daunting challenge.

While I worked for him, Don unveiled a book, or booklet, that he wrote: “The Idaho Potato Commission Foodservice Toolkit.” It is safe to say that this work ranks up high among Don’s many achievements. That in itself is saying something.

Don gave each of his three promotion directors (aka field guys), such as myself, a modest supply to use and distribute to foodservice industry members that we met with regularly. The book was a smash hit.

It’s not a long read. In fact, I read most of it for the first time on a plane while traveling for work from Denver to Seattle. I knew instantly that it was going to resonate as a valuable resource for chefs, produce buyers, specialists, restaurants, inspectors, merchandisers, produce directors, dietitians, culinary teachers, their students, and, of course, with fresh produce nerds far and wide.

It’s everything you wanted to know about potatoes but were afraid to ask.

Don was modest about “The Idaho Potato Commission Foodservice Toolkit” he worked on for years that he researched, wrote and produced. He once told me that the information within was a compilation gathered from all the Idaho growers, shippers and others in the Idaho Potato Commission who had preceded him.

Perhaps, but no one had put it all together before in such a concise and carefully crafted book. Don did just that.

The book is just 72 pages long. Don organized it so the reader can lean back and learn all about the potato’s humble origins from what is present day. The history within includes describes how American horticulturist Luther Burbank traipsed all over the country in the late 1800s until he ended up in Idaho’s rich farmland to cultivate his signature, high-solid, low moisture russet burbank variety.

The book shows key growing areas for the gem state’s multitude of varieties; includes a behind-the-scenes look at proper potato storage and a problem-solving chapter; explains basic potato food science and preparation techniques; breaks down potatoes into cost per serving and a whole lot more with text, charts and photos within. Included in the book is a link for Don’s own Dr. Potato feature , in which he offers an extensive Q&A section (and is still active on the IPC website) for people to ask potato-related questions.

To date, there are nearly 1,000 Dr. Potato posts with answers.

Why is such a potato foodservice toolkit publication relevant, you might ask? Because potatoes happen to be the No. 1 vegetable in volume in the U.S. and the world. Potatoes are nutrient-dense, low in calories, contain zero fat and have sustained entire civilizations throughout human history. Potatoes are also pocketbook-friendly, often costing less per pound than even bananas.

Yeah, you might say potatoes are an important crop worth knowing something about.

Not to mention that the humble spud is pretty darn tasty. Chefs are a creative bunch, and good and simple food preparation never goes out of style. The IPC website has thousands of recipes to choose from , along with many helpful charts and videos.

I can’t say enough about Don Odiorne as an author. Some people (like yours truly) have to work in the craft, to “get the words right,” as Hemingway once said. Near-flawless writing comes naturally to Don. The foodservice book is so organized, so well written and is loaded with valuable tips and details.

I also can’t say enough about Don as a person. Now retired, Don was a rare type of boss: always so kind and considerate with everyone. Don shared many interesting foodie stories over the years and, best of all, is still a close friend. The foodservice toolkit can be downloaded for free .

So, if you only read one produce-related book in the near future, treat yourself to this one. If you have anything to do with fresh produce, in the retail or foodservice world, or know someone who is, it is a must-read item. The IPC also has complementary printed versions available from your friendly Idaho potato representative. In the produce (and potato) world, it’s the gold standard.

No produce bookshelf is complete without a copy.

Armand Lobato’s more than 50 years of experience in the produce business span a range of foodservice and retail positions. He has written a weekly retail column for nearly two decades.

Potato Sustainability Initiatives Build Momentum

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 18:56:02 GMT

Faced with mounting environmental, economic and marketing pressures, more potato growers are incorporating sustainable growing practices into their operations.

Idaho Potato Commission

“I don’t think I’ve seen an industry that cares more about sustainability than the Idaho potato farmer,” says Ross Johnson, vice president of retail sales for the Eagle-based Idaho Potato Commission.

IPC invests more than $1 million a year in research and development, he says, and part of those funds is focused on improving sustainable agricultural practices.

“We’ve seen great strides in watering, fertilizing and washing our product to get it to market,” Johnson says. “We continue to have the strictest marketing order in the country, which helps us maintain the highest standards.”

Eagle Eye Produce

The approach to sustainability at Idaho Falls, Idaho-based Eagle Eye Produce is centered around efficiency, says Coleman Oswald, director of sales.

“We continually improve our processes so the resources we use go further, supporting both our business and the health of the planet,” he says.

Precise irrigation systems on the farms help the company use water wisely through the growing season, he says.
“In our packing facilities, we reuse fresh water and invest in technology to reduce waste and improve the number of potatoes that make it into a marketable pack,” Oswald says. “We have also upgraded to LED lighting, use electric forklifts and have added renewable energy solutions in some of our facilities.”

Offices have dramatically reduced the use of paper by going mostly digital, says Oswald, who adds that packaging is another focus for the company.

Eagle Eye uses recycled corrugated and paper packaging whenever possible and has introduced potato bags made with up to 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) content.
“We have also invested in reusable packaging, like RPCs, to cut down on single-use waste,” he says. “We have found that sustainability only works when it is practical, efficient and delivers value for everyone involved.”

A.V. Thomas Produce

Sustainability efforts also are ongoing at A.V. Thomas Produce, Livingston, Calif., and will continue where it makes sense, says Jeremy Fookes, director of sales.

“From our solar power production, water conservation, crop rotation, recycling and upcycling programs, our sustainability efforts have reduced our carbon footprint and improved our local community respectively,” he says.

The company has experienced an increase in the number of consumer inquiries about sustainable packaging, he says. But finding packaging that performs equally or better from a shelf life and marketing perspective has been challenging.

“As those challenges are met, at a comparable price point, we’ll see implementation taking place,” Fookes says.

Do Your Shoppers Know Potatoes Are Packed With Nutrients?

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 16:40:09 GMT

From a health standpoint, potatoes sometimes have an unfair reputation. However, nutritionists say that not only are tubers not bad for you, but they are also packed with nutrients.

“All vegetables are healthy, potatoes included,” says Shelley Maniscalco, a registered dietitian and partner at Nutrition in Demand, an agency that works with the Alliance for Potato Research and Education.

“Potatoes are quite nutrient-dense,” Maniscalco adds.
They deliver meaningful amounts of fiber and iron and are a good source of potassium, vitamin B6 and vitamin C. A medium-size potato contains about 3 grams of proteins, she adds.

No matter what color or variety of tuber one eats, Maniscalco says, “They all provide comparable vitamins and minerals.”

The difference is how they’re used and in the phytonutrients they offer.

“Color is an indication of the phytonutrient pigments that are in the skin,” she says.

They can vary slightly from one color to another, which is why it’s a good idea to eat a variety of potatoes.
“One of the best things about potatoes is that people genuinely enjoy them,” she says.

Power Pairings

Potatoes don’t create a consumer barrier like some veggies that don’t exactly tingle the taste buds.

“They’re versatile across cultures and can be paired with healthy nutrient ingredients,” she says.

Maniscalco says she loves broccoli on a baked potato, but tomatoes, peppers, Brussels sprouts and carrots also make good additions. Beans, lentils or yogurt can add even more protein.

How they’re prepared also makes a difference. A baked potato tastes different from one that is roasted or air fried.
The Potatoes USA recipe website, potatogoodness.com, lists a plethora of fun, creative recipes, Maniscalco says.

Misunderstood Effect

Potatoes’ ranking on the glycemic index can be misleading.
The GI is a research tool to measure how individual foods affect blood sugar, she says. It was not designed for public dissemination.

“It doesn’t reflect real-world eating patterns,” Maniscalco says. “Studies have shown that when potatoes are consumed as part of a mixed meal, they’ll have similar effects on blood sugar as other carbohydrates.”

Eating the skin can be extra beneficial because the fiber in the skin helps to slow down the effects of the carbohydrates releasing sugar into the blood, according to Maniscalco.

Digging Into Research

Here are findings from the four most recent peer-reviewed papers funded by the Alliance for Potato Research and Education:

• In a tightly controlled feeding study, the results showed when athletic men ate a diet where potatoes supplied about 60% of their calories during short-term calorie restriction and exercise, their muscles shifted toward greater efficiency and
endurance rather than toward muscle breakdown. (November 2025)
• A 12-week randomized crossover trial showed that people with Type 2 diabetes can eat potatoes every day without harming blood sugar, blood flow, blood pressure or cholesterol. Compared with eating white rice daily, eating potatoes led to smaller waist measurements, lower fat mass and lower heart rate. (August 2025)
• A meta-analysis of population studies found that overall potato intake (baked, boiled, mashed or fried) was not linked to a higher risk of Type 2 diabetes. A small increase in risk was seen only with fried potatoes when consumed at 10 times the average intake level, but clinical studies needed to know whether this is due to the potatoes themselves, other foods eaten with them or lifestyle factors. (January 2025)
• In a companion study from the same research team, eating five or more servings of potatoes per week was not linked to higher risk of cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure. (September 2024)

Side Delights Taps New Year’s ‘Selective Splurge’ Trend with Champagne Pairings

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 20:20:52 GMT

As consumers selectively splurge on premium items like Champagne for New Year’s celebrations, Side Delights says it is helping retailers build bigger baskets by pairing those purchases with high-value, versatile potatoes.

Potatoes are increasingly featured as an elegant foundation for New Year’s menus, from homemade potato chips and smashed potatoes to shareable roasted appetizers designed to complement sparkling or still wines, like the “Today” show ’s potato filling with crème fraîche, parsley and trout caviar in a crispy potato skin. Potatoes’ accessibility and versatility make them a natural companion to Champagne, allowing retailers to balance premium purchases with everyday staples.

“New Year’s is a prime opportunity to merchandise potatoes beyond the produce aisle,” says Kathleen Triou, president and CEO of Fresh Solutions Network. “When paired with Champagne, for example, potatoes help retailers inspire celebration, expand the basket and drive incremental sales across departments.”

Side Delights encourages cross-merchandising potatoes near Champagne or sparkling wine displays, creating holiday endcaps, and using simple pairing messaging to turn New Year’s entertaining into a profitable, multi-department retail moment.

The Side Delights recipe site provides elevated recipes and new ways to enjoy the full portfolio of potato products during this celebratory season and the rest of the year, the company says.

PSA Helps Growers Meet Sustainability Goals

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 18:01:48 GMT

Potato growers throughout North America are increasingly turning to the Saint Croix Falls, Wis.-based Potato Sustainability Alliance to help them gather and disseminate information about their sustainability benchmarks, says John Mesko, CEO.

PSA provides members with a wealth of services to help them incorporate sustainable operating practices into their businesses. The annual On-Farm Assessment Report is undoubtedly the alliance’s most valued resource.

In 2024, 474 growers completed the Sustainable Outcomes in Agriculture Standard through the Cropwise Sustainability app and selected PSA as their sustainability partner. Participating growers represented about half of the harvested potato acres in North America.

The SOA Standard framework measures management strategies, practices and technologies in six categories: optimal production, water impact, soil health, biodiversity and habitat, human and animal health, and community leadership.

Rankings of essential, basic, medium or high are reported in the On-Farm Assessment Report.

Growers use the information to help themselves get better, Mesko says, and processors and fresh marketers are able to aggregate their supply chain so they know how their suppliers and the farmers who supply their needs are doing. The potato value chain places tremendous value on the data that it collects, he adds.

Member Reports Impact

Alsum Farms & Produce Inc., Friesland, Wis., has gained a lot from its PSA membership, says Christine Lindner, marketing manager for the company.

“PSA offers a powerful platform to benchmark sustainability performance, share data and learn from innovators across the value chain — from growers to consumer-facing brands,” she says.

“Being part of this collaborative coalition has already helped us sharpen our on-farm practices, validate the environmental outcomes of Wisconsin Healthy Grown and better communicate our sustainability story to customers and consumers,” Lindner explains.

Alsum Farms & Produce joined the Potato Sustainability Alliance in 2024 because its mission aligns with Alsum’s commitment to sustainable potato farming, Lindner says.
For nearly three decades, the Wisconsin Healthy Grown program has guided Alsum’s approach to growing nutrient-rich potatoes while enhancing soil health, protecting water resources and strengthening biodiversity, Lindner says.
“Becoming part of PSA was a natural next step to amplify this work, connect with like-minded partners across North America and contribute to a unified voice for potato sustainability,” she says.

Alsum Farms is also a 2026 Top Producer of the Year Award finalist .

Growing Connection

Mesko refers to PSA as “an alliance of the entire potato industry.”

Growers, processors, fresh marketers, chemical companies, fertilizer companies, nonprofits, universities and financial institutions are all part of the alliance that is designed to develop “a community of growers that are leveraging best practices for continuous improvement,” he says.
Many organizations collect data, but few actually set improving sustainability as a goal, he adds.
PSA continues to attract attention from more than just growers.

On the foodservice side, McDonald’s, Wendy’s and Cisco are members of the alliance, Mesko says.
“We’re in conversation with many, many grocers and other restaurants,” he adds. “Folks in the retail world are becoming more and more interested.”
Eventually, he says, “There won’t be a buyer out there that’s buying potatoes that aren’t connected to us.”

(Kerry Halladay, associate editor for The Packer, contributed to this story.)

Top Tips for Moving Potatoes at Retail

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 13:14:52 GMT

Potatoes are typically a top-selling item at retail, especially during the fall and winter seasons when friends and families gather for home cooked meals.

The tubers rank among the top 5% of produce sales at Piggly Wiggly LLC, a chain of 241 stores based in Bessemer, Ala., says Jeff Vigil, director of produce and floral.
Potato sales are higher in the six Southeastern states the co-op serves than in other regions where Vigil has worked.
“The Southeast is very, very aggressive with potatoes,” he says.

Piggly Wiggly stores feature about 10 SKUs of bagged red, yellow, yukon gold and Idaho-labeled potatoes; four kinds of bulk potatoes; 15 SKUs of packaged potatoes, including trays and foil-wrapped tubers, and four kinds of sweetpotatoes.

“Potatoes are always a staple, but winter always has higher movement because there is more baking going on,” he says.

Five- and 10-pound bags of russets are the top-selling potato offering at W. Lee Flowers & Co., a Scranton, S.C.-based chain of 52 supermarkets, says Jim Williams, director of produce and floral.

Red and yukon gold potatoes are the next best sellers, and the stores also feature organic red and russet potatoes, bulk russets, sweetpotatoes, red, yellow and a trios blend of mini potatoes, microwaveable russets and sweetpotatoes, and small microwaveable bags.

Several kinds of bagged potatoes are among the top-selling potato offering at W. Lee Flowers & Co., a Scranton, S.C.-based chain of 52 supermarkets, says Jim Williams, director of produce and floral.

(Photo courtesy of W. Lee Flowers & Co.)

In all, stores carry about 17 potato options, and they rank among the top five bestselling produce items, Williams says.

Potatoes rank among the top 10 produce items at Hattiesburg, Miss.-based Corner Market, a chain of 21 stores located throughout Mississippi and Alabama, says Josh Smith, produce supervisor.

Stores offer about 20 potato options, including 3-pound bags of red and gold potatoes, 5- and 10-pound bags of russets and, for special holiday promotions, 8- and 15-pound bags of jumbo russet potatoes to accommodate large family gatherings, Smith says.

Five-pound bags of russet potatoes are the bestsellers.
Corner Market locations also offer bagged Green Giant potatoes from Potandon Produce LLC, roasting potatoes from Little Potato Co. and a large selection of Tasteful Selections from RPE LLC.

At Pete’s Market, a chain of 20 supermarkets based in Tinley Park, Ill., white potatoes and bagged russets are the two bestsellers, says buyer Patrick Morales.

“We also move a lot of 3-pound yukons,” Morales says.
The stores feature a number of specialty potatoes, including Green Giant brand Klondike potatoes in 1.5-pound bags and 3-pound packages of Green Giant Carb Smart yellow potatoes.

“A lot of specialty varieties have really picked up since 2020,” Morales says, while conventional potatoes have only experienced a slight sales boost.

Bagged potatoes account for about 60% of the chain’s potato sales.

Consumers buy large baking potatoes for summer grilling, he says, “but winter is when you’re really moving volume.”

Merchandising That Moves Product

Although all the Piggly Wiggly stores have different layouts, potatoes and dry items are usually merchandised toward the back of the produce department, and seasonal fruits and vegetables are displayed up front, Vigil says. The size of the potato displays varies from about 4 feet to 12 feet, depending on volume and the size of the produce department.

Potato four-packs also may be displayed in the meat department near the steaks, he says. Potatoes are also cross-merchandised with items like potato toppings from Concord Foods LLC.

Vigil says Piggly Wiggly stores highlight potatoes regularly, running at least one variety of potato in every ad.
The W. Lee Flowers potato table is about 20 feet long, with about 12 feet dedicated to bagged tubers, Williams says. Bags outsell bulk product because consumers consider that option to be a better value, he explains.

“Even if a 10-pound bag sells for $6.99, it’s only 69 cents a pound,” Williams says.

W. Lee Flowers stores also feature a bagged or bulk potato on ad just about every week.

Stores cross-merchandise potatoes with bacon bits, salt and pepper, aluminum foil for wrapping baking potatoes, and Fresh Success packets of bacon and chives among other flavors of toppings.

“If a grocery department has shelf-stable butter, we tie that in, too,” he says.

Brown sugar, marshmallows, glaze, pecan and meats are cross-merchandised with sweetpotatoes.

In most Corner Market stores, potatoes are displayed in the back of the produce department, Smith says.

Corner Market creates seasonal displays that let potatoes shine.

(Photo courtesy of Corner Market)

The main display table is about 8 feet wide, and promotional items are featured in 4-foot displays.
Bacon bits as well as other kinds of potato toppings are cross-merchandised with potatoes.

Although the modest price of potatoes might encourage sales, price alone does not prompt purchases, Smith says. Shoppers typically arrive with potatoes on their grocery list, yet volume is also influenced by location, promotional displays and the fact that potatoes are featured in nearly every ad.

Pete’s Market stores usually merchandise potatoes and onions in the back of the produce department because they’re not impulse items.

“You don’t need to put them in [consumers’] faces in order for them to buy it,” Morales says.

But their stores might place a rack of specialty potatoes toward the front to add a secondary space.

Potato tables are about 24 feet long with about 4-foot end caps. Spuds are cross merchandised with bacon bits or other toppings. And their stores usually feature at least one potato on ad each week.

“Onions and potatoes are still two of the lower-priced categories where things are still 99 cents,” Morales says. “Price is definitely a selling point.”

Masser Family of Companies Plans Product Showcase at New York Produce Show

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 15:27:52 GMT

The Masser Family of Companies is set to highlight a new product line of convenience potatoes during the New York Produce Show and Conference at the Javitz Center in New York City, Dec. 2-4.

MFC, which will also feature the full assortment of Side Delights varietal potatoes, says it will be joined by leading Pennsylvania value-added potato facility, Keystone Potato Products, and the Pennsylvania Cooperative, distributor of Penn’s Own brand of fresh potatoes.

“Attendees to this year’s show can be among the first to check out the new line of Side Delights convenience potatoes at booth No. 219,” says Tiffany Readinger, vice president of sales and category management for MFC. “We are proud to showcase innovative convenience-focused potato products that are designed to surprise and delight the busy, time-stressed potato consumer.”

MFC, Keystone and Pennsylvania Cooperative represent the majority of the Pennsylvania potato industry, with the collective ability to better serve retailers and meet the foodservice and institutional needs of all package sizes in the Northeast, the company says.

Presented by the Eastern Produce Council and Produce Business magazine, the New York Produce Show and Conference is a three-day event featuring networking opportunities, a one-day trade show with over 400 companies, educational sessions and tours of local retailers, wholesalers, foodservice distributors, urban farms and unique eateries.

MFC says the Side Delights portfolio includes a variety of nutritious, convenient and economical potato products to stock the pantry, prepare quickly or enjoy anytime.

Specialty Items Take Hold With Potato Consumers

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 00:04:57 GMT

The selection of consumer bags and specialty potato offerings is on the rise.

Wada Farms Marketing Group based in Idaho Falls, Idaho, has “an array of specialty items,” says Eric Beck, marketing director.

Offerings include 1.5-pound mesh bags, individually wrapped microwaveable russet potatoes, premium tray packs and premium foil-wrapped russet potatoes.

“The specialty market continues to grow,” he says. “The mini-potato market continues to gain more and more market share as consumers gravitate toward smaller pack sizes.”

Time-starved consumers want ready-to-go offerings because they’re convenient for meal preparation, he adds.

Eagle Eye Produce in Idaho Falls offers value-added items like microwaveable single-wrapped potatoes, steam bags, boil bags, tray packs and pillow packs, says Coleman Oswald, director of sales.

“We offer everything from single-wrapped potatoes and small packs, like 1.5-pound all the way up to 5- and 10-pound bags, as well as bulk 50-pound cartons and bags,” he says.

The company has about an even split between bulk and consumer packs, Oswald says.

“In recent years, demand for packaged product has grown as shoppers look for convenience, and we’ve invested significantly into packing equipment for our retail programs,” he says.

Last year, the company introduced a potato bag made with 25% post-consumer recycled content, and this year it was improved it to 30%, Oswald says.

The bag is in distribution with major retailers across the country.

Pleasant Valley Potato Inc., Aberdeen, Idaho, which grows russet potatoes exclusively, ships mostly 5-pound bags as well as some 3-, 4- and 10-pounders, says Ryan Wahlen, sales manager.

There’s a foil-wrapped niche item for foodservice customers, he says.

About 70% of the company’s potatoes are sold in bags.