SAN FRANCISCO, CA - As COVID-19 lockdowns confined most consumers to their homes, many of them created their own eden in their kitchens, trying out unique ingredients and creative new recipes. Now, as we emerge from the restrictions of the pandemic, Side Delights® has a tantalizing variety of healthy potato products to choose from as shoppers begin to show off the skills they learned while in lockdown.

“While many consumers became home-chefs over the past year out of necessity, it has helped them realize the health and economic benefits of cooking at home—especially for foods like potatoes that are nutritious, affordable, and versatile,” noted Kathleen Triou, President and CEO of Fresh Solutions Network.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers reportedly cooked slightly less than half of their meals at home, according to a press release. As of April 2021, this has increased to 66 percent. Driven by creativity and confidence, many shoppers have come to the conclusion that they prefer cooking at home, with 67 percent reporting they can save money, 56 percent saying they eat healthier, and 56 percent stating they feel good after a meal at home. Undoubtedly, 2020 was the year of trying new recipes—many of which incorporated fresh produce and new value-added products.

“Potatoes continue to be America’s #1 favorite vegetable for five years straight, and America’s favorite side dish,” Triou explained. “So it’s no surprise that 84 percent of households purchase potatoes, and 74 percent state they ate potatoes weekly, only surpassed by bread! Our Side Delights potatoes are pretty popular, and we are so proud to be feeding America.”

As restrictions caused by the pandemic begin to lift, shoppers will continue to hone in on their home cooking skills and prepare delicious meals for their family and friends, as 71 percent of consumers noted they would continue to cook at home more after the pandemic ends. Side Delights offers a variety of potatoes and recipes perfect for gatherings of any size, including Grilled Potato Dippers, Festive Papas Tapas, or Crab-Filled Potato Bites.

With gatherings becoming permitted at various levels, many consumers are returning to the long-awaited experience of dining with friends and family, with the study showing that home cooking caused 45 percent of consumers to eat together as a family more often.

“Now that families are finally able to reunite, they are gathering together in the kitchen, the dining room, and the backyard,” added Triou. “People are ready not only to share their new culinary skills with loved ones safely, but to celebrate and continue with their lives.”

As consumer shopping habits continue to change and evolve, keep reading AndNowUKnow as we report.

Side Delights®