As Thanksgiving approaches, many families are preparing to gather around the dinner table with one dish that’s hard to imagine celebrating without—potatoes. Whether mashed, roasted, or baked, potatoes are a staple on holiday menus across the country, and Wisconsin plays a key role in providing this beloved vegetable. Dana Rady, Director of Promotions, Communication, and Consumer Education at the Wisconsin Potato and Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA), shares that “Wisconsin is the number one potato-producing state east of the Mississippi and the third in the nation.” With over 100 local growers producing an impressive 63,000 acres of potatoes each year, Wisconsin potatoes are both a nutritional powerhouse and an essential part of holiday traditions.
Potatoes offer the most nutrients per penny, making them a budget-friendly and healthy choice for Thanksgiving feasts. “They’re highly nutritious, packed with potassium—more than a banana,” Rady explains. This versatility makes potatoes an ideal addition to any meal, whether served as a side dish, the main course, or even in a dessert. “You can enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even in a cookie,” she adds, encouraging families to get creative with their potato dishes this season.
The demand for potatoes spikes during the holiday season, and 2023 was no exception. “Consumers spent approximately $220 million on 265 million pounds of fresh potatoes nationwide, during Thanksgiving,” Rady notes.
In addition to their versatility in the kitchen, the variety of potatoes available offers new flavors to try. “While russets and reds are traditional choices for mashed potatoes, yellows are becoming increasingly popular for their creamy texture and buttery flavor,” Rady shares. “I personally love the petite potatoes, which offer a nutty flavor and vibrant color that brighten up any dish.”
As families gather to celebrate, Rady also emphasizes the importance of buying local. “By choosing Wisconsin potatoes, you’re not only supporting local farmers but also helping reduce your carbon footprint,” she says. “Potatoes grown locally travel fewer miles, making them a more sustainable choice.” Consumers can easily identify Wisconsin-grown potatoes by checking the packaging for a Wisconsin address.
Despite a challenging growing season with increased rainfall, Wisconsin growers are meeting the demand for high-quality potatoes. “The quality of this year’s crop is excellent, and growers are very satisfied with the harvest,” Rady states. As the shipping season begins, Wisconsin potatoes are ready to make their way to Thanksgiving tables across the country, providing a nutritious and local touch to holiday meals.
