2008 Idaho Potato Harvest Forecast: Plentiful, High-Quality Spuds

Idaho Potato growers are expected to harvest about 300,000 acres, producing approximately 11 billion pounds of the signature spuds during the harvest, which runs from August through October. After harvest, 62% will be processed into frozen or dehydrated potato products; 29% will be shipped fresh to supermarkets and restaurants nationwide; and 9% will be used for certified seed -- to grow more potatoes next year!

"Hands down, this was a terrific growing season," said Frank Muir, President and CEO, Idaho Potato Commission. "The growing conditions were perfect for our famous russet potatoes, and many farmers are expanding into other potato varieties like reds, fingerlings and Yukon Golds as well, giving consumers more Idaho Potato varieties than ever before."

With more than 16 potato varieties, including organic, grown inIdaho, it's no wonder that potatoes are America's favorite vegetable. Annual per capita consumption of all frozen, dehydrated and fresh potatoes in 2007 was approximately 126 pounds. With more and more consumers realizing the nutritional return on investment (ROI) of one Idaho Potato, that number is sure to grow. For less than a quarter, one spud provides 110 calories, almost half the daily vitamin C requirements, nearly two times as much potassium as a banana, fiber and loads of important vitamins and minerals. Not to mention, potatoes are fat and cholesterol free.

The Idaho Potato industry contributes $2.7 billion -- more than 15 percent ofIdaho's gross state product -- to the state's economy each year and accounts for roughly one third of the U.S. fall potato crop. Sixty percent of the crop is produced in the eastern region ofIdaho, making it one of the largest potato-producing regions inNorth America.

Founded in 1937 as the Idaho Fruit and Vegetable Advertising Commission, the IPC, made up of nine commissioners representing processors, shippers and growers, is the national authority on the world's best-loved potato: The Idaho Potato. The IPC is funded by a tax levied on allIdaho-grown potatoes based on hundredweight, with the monies used to advertise, promote, research and improve the state's potato crop.

The Idaho Potato Commission is a state agency that is primarily responsible for expanding the markets forIdaho grown potatoes through advertising, promotion and research. The Commission also protects the use of the "Idaho Potato" and "Grown inIdaho" seals, which are federally registered Certification Marks that belong to the IPC. These Marks ensure that consumers are purchasing potatoes that have been grown in the state ofIdaho.

SOURCE Idaho Potato Commission

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