The Idaho® Potato Difference

Russet potatoes are grown in many states, however, only potatoes grown in Idaho can be called Idaho® potatoes. Idaho’s ideal growing conditions – the rich, volcanic soil, climate and irrigation – are what differentiate Idaho® potatoes from potatoes grown in other states.

"Idaho® potato" and the "Grown in Idaho®" seal are federally registered Certification Marks that belong to the Idaho Potato Commission (IPC). These Marks ensure that consumers are purchasing potatoes that have been grown in the state of Idaho.

The IPC works hard to protect these trademarks and ultimately the integrity of the "Idaho® potato" brand, which is recognized around the world as a premium potato. In fact, recently a trial was held in the U. S. District Court for the Southern District of New York where a jury  concluded, and a Judge affirmed, that “Idaho” was not generic for any russet potato.

Idaho Russet potatoes consistently average high solids, year after year. Their high solids and low moisture content make Idaho's Russet potatoes superior to those produced in other states. Use Idaho Russets and you'll find that:

• Baked potatoes will turn out fluffier, with white interior and more potato flavor than their soggy or mushy competition
• Fresh, French-fried potatoes will cook up crispy, shrink less and absorb less oil
• Mashed potatoes will have a consistent texture and a taste that's unequalled. They hold up better than the competition, even when overmixed

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.

Why bother with potatoes that are only available in season?

• Idaho Potatoes are usually available year-round, whereas potatoes from some other states are only available for a portion of each year

With over a century of growing potatoes, Idaho has produced more potatoes than any other state every year since 1957. Idaho's potato industry has actively led the industry in:

• Potato research, growing techniques, food safety issues, storage, handling and distribution
• Advertising the goodness of Idaho Potatoes to consumers with major media in television and print expenditures
• Providing educational, training and merchandising materials

Survey after survey points out the high brand awareness of Idaho Potatoes. They far outscore other states' potatoes in customer preference and awareness. Cash in on the famous Idaho Potato brand equity EVERY time you sell a potato.

• In the 2000 National Family Opinion Research "Brand Value Assessment," Idaho potatoes ranked #8 out of 44 top food service brands in all categories
• NFP Research's 1999 Brand Communication survey found that only a small portion of operators communicate the state source of their potatoes (21%), but of that group, 58% communicate "Idaho" because, as one operator responded, "...patrons will know we use the best quality"
• The Packer's 2002 study on brand awareness revealed that 86% of consumers prefer Idaho Potatoes over potatoes produced in any other state