Fresh potato, Quality Available : A Grade

What are potatoes?

The potato, from the perennial Solanum tuberosum, is the world’s fourth largest food crop, following rice, wheat, and maize. Potatoes are one of the most common and important food sources on the planet, and they contain a wealth of health benefits that make them all the more essential as a staple dietary item for much of the world’s population.

Scientific Definition : The term potato can refer to either the plant or the entire tuber, which is rather shapeless and ugly, in most varieties. Its scientific name is Solanum tuberosum, and it is actually a member of the nightshade family. 

Short History : The Inca Indians in Peru were the first to cultivate potatoes around 8,000 BC to 5,000 B.C. In 1536 Spanish Conquistadors conquered Peru, discovered the flavors of the potato, and carried them to Europe.  Before the end of the sixteenth century, families of Basque sailors began to cultivate potatoes along the Biscay coast of northern Spain.  Sir Walter Raleigh introduced potatoes to Ireland in 1589 on the 40,000 acres of land near Cork. It took nearly four decades for the potato to spread to the rest of Europe. These vegetables now dominate the world as the 4th largest food crop, and more than 1/3 of the world’s potatoes are actually now grown in China and India, where they represent an essential part of their cuisine, as well as the cuisine of many of their neighboring countries.

Main Ingredients :  The Nutrition Facts Label says it all.  Potatoes are:

• Nearly half your daily value of vitamin C
• A good source of potassium (more than a banana!)
• A good source of vitamin B6
• A good source of Fiber (8% in the skins),  magnesium and antioxidants
• It also contains Vitamin A and Vitamin P

Potato Facts

• Gluten free goodness
• Just 110 calories
• No fat, sodium or cholesterol
• More potassium than a banana
• Resistant starch

Health benefits : These health benefits include:

• Ability to improve digestion,
• Reduce cholesterol levels,
• Boost heart health,
• Protect from polyps,
• Prevent cancer, and
• Manage diabetes.
• Other health benefits
• They strengthen the immune system,
• Reduce signs of aging,
• Protect the skin,
• Increase circulation,
• Reduce blood pressure,
• Maintain fluid balance,
• Reduce insomnia, and
• Aid in eye care.

Common Use : Used as vegetable both in raw and cooked form. Choose from roasted, baked, fried, scalloped, mashed, and more.

The % Daily Value(DV) tells u how much a nutrient in a sering of food contributes to a daily diet.2000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.