Kim Breshears, the Chief Marketing Officer of Potatoes USA, has given a clear overview of the US potato market. She emphasized that potatoes have consistently been America’s favorite vegetable.
According to annual studies conducted by Potatoes USA, potatoes have held the top spot for the past five years, surpassing other popular vegetables like broccoli, corn, and tomatoes. Not only are they the nation’s favorite vegetable, but potatoes also dominate as the preferred takeout dish, side dish, and are the number one vegetable sold in the country.
Breshears revealed that 40% of the potatoes grown in the US are directed towards the retail sector, another 40% to the food service sector, and the remaining 20% are exported. An analysis of the past decade showed that the sales of potatoes in the US have consistently exceeded the amount grown domestically. This surge in demand is further supported by data indicating a 9% increase in import sales, a slight 3% dip in retail sales, and a significant 12% boost in food service sales compared to the previous fiscal year.
Interestingly, while retail sales of potatoes have seen a 6% increase over the last five years, food service sales experienced a 9% decline. However, Breshears was quick to point out that this decline was from a peak period and the sector is now showing strong signs of recovery post-pandemic.
Source: potatonewstoday.com