Potatoes are one of the most versatile foods around. You can eat them for breakfast (think hash browns), lunch (hello, French fries), and dinner (creamy mashed potatoes, anyone?). But how much do you really know about this popular vegetable? Get ready to put your knowledge to the test as we reveal seven amazing facts about potatoes.
1. The Potato Hails from the Andes
Let’s get to the root of the potato—its origins. You may have heard of the Idaho potato or the Washington State potato, and while potatoes are incredibly popular here in the US, they were originally cultivated thousands of years before they ever made their way to the States.
The tuber was first grown more than 7,000 years ago in the Andes Mountains of South America. The crop had a significant influence on the Inca, who were the first to cultivate it. In fact, some believe the Inca used the amount of time it took to cook a potato to measure actual units of time.
Gradually, the crop began to make its way to other parts of the world. The spud was introduced to North America in the 1620s, when the British governor of the Bahamas sent potatoes and other vegetables to the Jamestown colony in Virginia.
What about those French fries we’ve all come to know and love? Well, you have Thomas Jefferson to thank for that. With his penchant for French food, Jefferson is credited with popularizing French fries in the States—even serving them for guests at the White House during his presidency.
2. They’ve Been Grown in Space
Yes, you read that heading right. NASA plant scientists have studied which vegetables can be grown in outer space, with the potato being the first approved for liftoff. Back in 1995, potato explants were flown on Space Shuttle Columbia in a controlled environment designed for plant growth.
The results of the groundbreaking experiment were out of this world. The tubers formed in space bore many similarities to their Earthly counterparts and laid the foundation for future space-plant exploration.
3. They’re Nutrient-Dense and Dietician-Recommended
Potatoes are flavorful, versatile, and nutritious. So much so that they’re dietitian-recommended, especially if you’re trying to eat healthy on a tight budget. In fact, research shows that you get more nutrients per penny with beans and potatoes than with any other vegetable. If you’re looking to offset rising food costs, just reach for potatoes the next time you’re browsing produce in the grocery aisle.
4. One Sack Can Feed the Whole Family for a Week
Potatoes have a long shelf life, making them a shelf-stable food. When you buy potatoes in bulk, the affordable vegetable becomes even more cost-efficient.
Raw potatoes last anywhere from one week to several months, so you can stock up on the vegetable without worrying about it spoiling quickly. When kept in a cool, dark space, rather than at room temperature, they typically last longer.
Since breakfast potatoes are just as delicious as mashed potatoes, the starchy vegetable can be served at any meal. A 20-pound sack of potatoes can feed a family of four for an entire week, even if you plan on having them for both breakfast and dinner.
So, what will that cost you? While prices vary by location and variety, in Washington State, you can expect to pay anywhere from $5 to about $11 for a 20-pound sack. Few vegetables are as hearty, affordable, and versatile as the potato, making them the perfect addition to any family meal.
5. The Netherlands Holds World Record for the Largest Potato Sack Race
Have some family fun by holding a potato sack race in the backyard! Battle it out in a friendly competition that tests your agility and keeps the whole family active.
On the global stage, the Netherlands holds the world record for the largest potato sack race that ever took place. It was held in October 2022 and featured more than 2,000 competitors, earning it the title of Largest Sack Race by Guinness World Records.
Another fun fact? There was an attempt to break the record at the Idaho Potato Days 2025 event. However, the effort fell short, and the Netherlands holds onto the title … for now.
6. They’re a Staple Crop Worldwide
Potatoes are considered a staple crop in many places, having sustained global populations through times of economic hardship and plight. In fact, according to the United Nations, about two-thirds of the world’s population eats potatoes as a staple food.
The potato is considered the world’s fourth most important crop, after rice, wheat, and maize. Potatoes also produce less greenhouse gas emissions compared to other crops, making them an environmentally-friendly food source.
7. Experts Say “Eat More Spuds”
With the vitamin C, potassium, and fiber found in their skins, potatoes are a healthy food choice with many nutritional benefits. It’s easy to see why experts say you should eat more of them!
Pro tip? The darker the potato, the more antioxidants it typically contains. For instance, purple potatoes are rich in antioxidants that may prevent certain illnesses, such as heart disease and cancer. They may also promote brain health.
Whether you boil, bake, or roast them, potatoes are an excellent source of nutrition. Bonus fact? There’s a museum dedicated to them! The Potato Museum in Albuquerque houses the world’s largest collection of potato memorabilia and archival materials and is a testament to just how important the crop is across the globe. Now that you know all these fun facts about potatoes, you’re ready for your next game of trivia! Interested in supporting potato farmers here at home, or simply want to learn more intriguing facts about potatoes? The Washington State Potato Commission website is an excellent resource. From delicious recipes to news and nutritional information, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the potato!
