SUGAR CITY, ID & URBANA, OH - It is no secret that dishes around this point of the year are potato-centric, yet as supply continues to work its way back to median levels it is also a reminder how imperative communications between buyers and suppliers are.

“One of the biggest factors with fresh potato supply is that the potato processors are also short on supply, thus offering large amounts of money to growers to sell their fresh supply to them,” Jill Cox, Sales for Sun-Glo of Idaho, shares. “Likewise, pricing is tied to supply, and thus inflated due to the shortage.”

Lower volume due to low yields this year is reflected in a shortage in overall supply, making it a case-by-case basis on meeting holiday needs depending on region.

“The Russet market overall is tight; however our Midwest supply has been able to cover above initial expectations for holiday needs,” Kathy Sponheim, Sales and Administration, said of Ohio-based Michael Family Farms. “Round whites have seen a revived trip to the Thanksgiving plate as a creamy flavorful mashed potato option as shoppers and retailers sense the tighter Russet market.”

She reminds readers that, as consumers plan for cooler months, hearty family dinners, and tighter budgets, potatoes still reign as a champion of nutrients-per-dollar in the produce department.

“We have seen good success in merchandising locally-sourced staples together for a total meal solution from locally grown potatoes to locally grown apples for pie,” Kathy advised in terms of merchandising strategies.

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Sun-Glo of Idaho Michael Family Farms