America’s Favorite Vegetable: Potatoes

(Sponsored) The demand for potatoes continues to grow among Americans. The 2022 Consumer Attitudes and Usage study, commissioned by Potatoes USA, indicates that potatoes continue to be America’s favorite vegetable and are eaten more frequently, according to the 2022 Consumer Attitudes and Usage study.

Potato consumption in the U.S. increased in the past year to 77 percent of consumers stating they ate potatoes in the last week, a three percent increase from 2021, only surpassed by bread. Also, potatoes continue to rank as America’s favorite vegetable and favorite side-dish at foodservice.

Compared to the top 20 most consumed vegetables in the U.S., potatoes are number one, however, broccoli gained favorability amongst consumers, but remained the second most popular vegetable, followed by corn and tomatoes.

Americans also indicated their love for fries. Fries were identified as the style of potato eaten most recently, increasing from third position, followed by mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, hash browns, and roasted potatoes. Fries were also the preferred style of potatoes for takeout.

The 2022 study indicates the consumers surveyed primarily choose foods based on their flavor, freshness, and value, which remains consistent from earlier studies.  For potatoes, consumers appreciate that potatoes may be eaten in many ways, satisfying, filling and versatile.

A few more noteworthy changes in eating pattern data from the prior year’s study: forty-seven percent of Americans surveyed claim they follow a dietary plan, indicating today’s consumers are eating choices are more intentional than prior years. This is a three percent increase from 2021. Leading dietary plans include low sugar, carb-restrictive, and low sodium. Recipes continue to be important for meal preparation, as eighty-one percent say they use recipes. An increasing percent of consumers describe their cooking style as being more adventurous, indicating consumers are more comfortable in their cooking ability.

Even though potatoes are eaten often, the study also asked the respondents why they do not eat potatoes more frequently. The belief they already eat enough potatoes was cited as the primary reason, followed by beliefs potatoes are high in carbohydrates, they are fattening, they prefer other vegetables, and are high in calories. However, when asked what would encourage them to buy more potatoes, consumers cited smaller bag sizes to minimize waste, nutritional information and recipe and meal ideas before shopping.

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