February is National Potato Lover’s Month

MADISON February isn’t just for valentines, chocolates and flowers. It is for potatoes too. Katie Wirkus, the 64th Alice in Dairyland of the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture Trade and Consumer Protection, and the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association have kicked-off February by promoting National Potato Lover’s Month. The average American eats 126 pounds of potatoes each year. Wisconsin grew over 2.2 billion pounds of potatoes last year, ranking third in the nation for potato production. One medium-sized potato only has 110 calories and is free of fat, cholesterol, sodium and gluten. It also provides 45 percent of the recommended daily Vitamin C. “The nutrient delivery provided by potatoes is one of the best food values available to consumers,” stated Duane Maatz, executive director of the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association. He explained, “The potato contains more potassium that a banana as well as fiber and Vitamin C. You can even eat the tasty wrapper.” According to the University of Wisconsin Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics, potatoes in Wisconsin contribute a farm value of nearly $350 million and over 2,700 jobs to the Wisconsin economy. “Potatoes are healthy for us to eat and healthy for Wisconsin’s economy,” said Katie Wirkus, 64th Alice in Dairyland. “Buying Wisconsin potatoes helps support the local producers while keeping the money in our local communities and economies.” Learn more about Wisconsin potatoes and find recipes at eatwisconsinpotatoes.com.