MARKESAN, WI & URBANA, OH - Potatoes are a staple in shoppers’ baskets for several reasons: they’re nutritious, have a long shelf-life, and are versatile. With Picnic Month upon us, the category will see a lot of attention as mashed potatoes, potato salad, and many more creations come to the forefront—and our industry’s providers have insight into that market space.

“Wisconsin potato harvest is underway with the start of yellow and red potatoes, and Russet potatoes are on track to begin harvest on August 11. The potato market for the Bakers and golds this summer has been strong. Despite the drought, our stands are looking good as well as the plant growth. We anticipate a good-quality crop,” Christine Lindner, Marketing Manager for Alsum Farms & Produce, shares with me. “We continue to see yellow and petite potato category growth for the past two years. As a result, Alsum Farms has added more yellow potato acres along with petite red and petite yellow acres that were previously red potatoes.”

Christine notes Wisconsin will be able to provide quality new crop at competitive prices, which allows retailers to run promotions on new crop potatoes during the latter half of the summer months and into fall.

PRO*ACT’s The Source, released August 2, noted potatoes will have limited supplies with fair quality this month. The report noted despite declining prices, the market remains extreme. There will be an overlap between the Idaho storage crop and the new crop.

Kathy Michael Sponheim, Sales and Administration for Michael Family Farms, also reports good growing conditions to make this season a profitable one.

“A good growing season has positioned Michael Family Farms well for supply and quality this year,” Kathy says for the Fresh Solutions Network® partner. “We plan to start harvesting mid-August, making a smooth transition from storage crop to new crop. Markets remain firm as potatoes continue to be a staple nutrient powerhouse vegetable at a good value.”

ANUK will keep an eye out for more market updates straight from the fields.

Alsum Farms & Produce Fresh Solutions Network®