Latest News from the IPC

As customer snacking occasions climb, the popularity of fried items remains steady, while consumers’ interest in diet and well-being grows. Recognizing that French Fries, potato “tots” and other favorite potato sides and snacks lie at the center of this perfect storm, the Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) joined Bunge, Frymaster and Lamb Weston to launch www.fitfrying.com, a partnership initiative that offers resources foodservice operators need most to fry more healthfully.

The Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) announced today that it is the Presenting Sponsor of RODS Racing 2013. RODS Racing is comprised of 40 superior athletes who will collectively compete in more than 224 marathons, triathlons and other events this year, raising money to find homes in the United States for orphaned children with Down syndrome who live in other parts of the world. The IPC has donated $50,000, which will cover the adoption costs of two orphans.

True to the Idaho Potato Commission’s (IPC) “Passionate About Potatoes” foodservice advertising campaign, chefs across the country are dishing up Idaho® Potatoes in extraordinary and delectable ways. To give operators insight into the creative thinking of six leading chefs, the IPC has collected their signature recipes in the 2013 “Passionate About Potatoes” card set.

In celebration of American Heart Month, the Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) launched the Heart Smart Recipe Contest with fitness guru Denise Austin and the popular Mr. Food Test Kitchen. Consumers are encouraged to submit their favorite quick and easy Idaho® potato recipe that not only tastes great but is healthy too!

Take a look at the trend predictions for 2013, and there’s little doubt that culinary compasses are pointed south. With the regional cuisines of South America in the spotlight, diners will be enjoying more of the continent’s ethnic ingredients, like the potato. Luckily for U.S. operators and customers, the potato is flourishing in Idaho. Idaho can claim the largest potato production in the country, with varieties than range from the classic Russet to Golds, Reds, Fingerlings (including the Purple Peruvian) and the All Blue and Huckleberry.

As the Idaho Potato Commission’s (IPC) 75th Anniversary year comes to a close, the IPC has partnered with Idaho’s First Lady, Lori Otter, to launch “Smashed Spuddy Buddy,” an educational and interactive program designed to help teach kids about the nutritional benefits of Idaho® potatoes. For a limited time parents will have an opportunity to win one of 75 $100 U.S. Savings Bonds.

Potato Lover’s Month 2013 arrives with good news for restaurant operators and their potato-loving customers. The popular 10-ounce and above, “steakhouse” sized Idaho® Russets are in good supply. For operators, that means plenty of seasonal opportunities to profit from tasty, economical Idaho® potatoes.

This football season, Mr. Food’s Test Kitchen and the Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) have teamed up to create a free, downloadable “Game Day Recipe” eCookbook featuring 30 crowd-pleasing recipes. Whether a seasoned player or a rookie in the kitchen, these mouthwatering munchies are sure to be a “touchdown” at any tailgating or home-gating event! Download the free e-cookbook here. 

The Utah State University Aggies have earned a second chance to bring home the Famous Idaho® Potato Bowl trophy. On Saturday, December 15th, the Aggies will take on the University of Toledo Rockets on the blue turf of Bronco Stadium in Boise, Idaho. The Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) is the sponsor of this cold-weather showdown, which has a history of dramatic finishes.

It’s no secret that some of the most popular dishes this time of year are the ones made with famous Idaho® potatoes. To help ease meal preparation and alleviate stress, the Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) has called in a few of the pros and gathered its favorite holiday recipes to create a comprehensive resource center that every aspiring home chef must visit.