The Idaho Potato Commission (IPC), representing Idaho Potato processors, shippers and growers, reports another excellent harvest during this, its 70th Anniversary year.
Check out these fun facts about this year's successful harvest:
Approximately 348,000 acres of Idaho Potatoes were harvested from August through October
Harvest 2007 produced approximately 13 billion pounds of potatoes
Idaho is the #1 producer of potatoes in the nation and annually produces about one-third of the total U.S. potato crop
Sixty-two percent of Idaho Potatoes are processed, frozen or dehydrated; 29 percent are shipped fresh to supermarkets; and, 9 percent are used for certified seedMore fun facts about Idaho potatoes:
New York consumers enjoy the greatest number of Idaho Potatoes, followed by residents of Ohio, Florida, Pennsylvania and Texas
Annual per capita consumption of all potatoes (fresh, frozen and dehydrated) in the U.S. was approximately 126 pounds in 2006
Potatoes are American's favorite vegetable and the second most consumed food after dairy products.
Frozen potatoes, including French fries, are the #1 prepared-style of potatoes in the U.S. Americans eat more than 16 pounds of French fries every year.
Thomas Jefferson introduced French fries to America when he served them at the White House in 1802.
In 1995, the potato was reportedly the first vegetable grown in outer space.For even more fun facts, visit www.idahopotato.com to download the IPC's 70 Tater Tips & Fun Facts Brochure. The IPC's website is home to 500+ Idaho Potato recipes.
