Seasonality:
- Most potatoes varieties are available year-round.
Health Benefits of Potatoes:
- Skin-on potatoes are an excellent source of Vitamin C and a good source of potassium and Vitamin B6.
- Potatoes provide the carbohydrates, potassium and energy needed to perform at our best.
- Leave the skin on potatoes for added health benefits and better nutrition.
How to Select Potatoes:
- Choose potatoes that are firm, smooth and free of sprouts.
- Avoid potatoes with wrinkled skins, soft dark areas, cut surfaces or those green in appearance.
How to Store Potatoes:
- Store potatoes in a cool, dark place with good ventilation. A perforate plastic or paper bag offers the best environment.
- Don’t store potatoes in the refrigerator! When stored at colder temperatures, the starch in a potato converts to sugar, resulting in a sweet taste and discoloration.
- Don’t wash potatoes before storing.
How to Prepare Potatoes:
- Gently scrub potatoes with a vegetable brush under running water.
- If peeling, use a vegetable peeler or paring knife to remove the skin.
- Build a better baked potato with this handy guide or switch up oven-roasted potatoes with these 5 variations!
Fun Facts About Potatoes:
- Potatoes were the first food to be grown in space. In 1996, potato plants were taken into space with the space shuttle Columbia.
- About 20% of potato nutrition is found in the skin; the majority is in the flesh.
- There are more than 600 types of potatoes sold in the United States. Each of those varieties fit into one of the 7 potato type categories: russet, red, white, yellow, blue/purple, fingerling and petite. For more on the different types of potatoes, visit potatogoodness.com.
- Potatoes are an excellent way to fuel athletes! Get tips here.
Downloadable Resources
Learn more at Colorado Potato Administrative Committee and the Idaho Potato Commission.
Get additional resources in our Nutrition Education Center
