Eagle ID — In a new survey by the Idaho Potato Commission (IPC)*, 97% of Americans said they eat potatoes, and more than 81% enjoy them as a side dish, snack or main course on average of three days per week. Conducted prior to Potato Lover’s Month (February), the survey polled 1000 nationally representative Americans ages 18 and over, and delivered unambiguously pro-potato results. According to Frank Muir, IPC President/CEO, “America’s favorite vegetable is now consumed three times a week, up from two times weekly in 2009.”
Other “eye-opening” revelations include:
• More men than women (84% vs. 78%) eat potatoes once a week
• Regionally, Midwesterners are most likely to eat potatoes at least once a week (88%)
• Popularity of preparations rank with ease of preparation–Baked (29%), Mashed (25%), French fries (17%), Hash browns (9%), Potato chips (5%)
• Consumers aged 45+ favor baked potatoes (36% vs. 23% for ages 18-44)
• Consumers aged 18-44 prefer French fries (21% vs. 12% for age 45+)
• Nearly 25% chose potatoes as the vegetable they crave (leafy greens follow at 20%)
• 72% said they would eat Idaho® potatoes in preference to potatoes from other states.
The survey results reinforce the success of IPC marketing efforts. “The Idaho Potato Commission's marketing programs have one main objective – to increase Idaho® potato consumption nationwide,” explains Muir. “We’re thrilled with the survey results, which finds consumer attitudes toward potatoes wholeheartedly positive.”
* Idaho Potato Commission survey conducted by Kelton Global, January 2014.
About the Idaho Potato Commission
Established in 1937, the Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) is a state agency that is responsible for promoting and protecting the famous “Grown in Idaho®” seal, a federally registered trademark that assures consumers they are purchasing genuine, top-quality Idaho® potatoes. Idaho’s growing season of warm days and cool nights, ample mountain–fed irrigation and rich volcanic soil, give Idaho® potatoes their unique texture, taste and dependable performance. These ideal growing conditions are what differentiate Idaho® potatoes from potatoes grown in other states. For more information, visit: www.idahopotato.com.
Source: Idaho Potato Commission
