Potato News from the United States

Idahoan and the Idaho Potato Commission launch a National Potato Day recipe contest. Fans can make Idahoan mashed potatoes the main dish for a chance to win a Big Idaho Potato Hotel stay, USD 500 and potato swag.

The Potato Sustainability Alliance (PSA) has released its 2025 On-Farm Assessment Report, highlighting continued participation and measurable sustainability performance across potato production in the United States and Canada.

MoistTech will present the IR-3000 NIR moisture sensor at PACK EXPO International 2026. The system enables real-time moisture control, helping food and corrugated manufacturers improve quality, reduce waste, and save energy.

Washington potato exports have dropped about 10% as China expands production and exports across Pacific Rim markets. Industry leaders say China's lower costs and investment in potato research are increasing pressure on U.S. growers.

United States lawmakers have introduced the 'Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act of 2026,' a bill backed by the National Potato Council to modernize the H-2A program, address labor shortages and improve workforce stability for agriculture.

Shearer's Foods has opened its 17th manufacturing facility and fourth in Ohio. The new Moraine plant, built in a former General Motors facility, will produce variety packs, create hundreds of jobs, and expand the company's snack production capacity.

The Potato Association of America (PAA) concluded its 110th Annual Meeting in New Orleans with the installation of its 2026-2027 Board of Directors, recognition of Honorary Life Members and the announcement of the 2027 meeting in Minneapolis.

North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission and Rootsii are developing a first-of-its-kind sweetpotato milk from surplus crops. Backed by USD 1.82 million funding, the sustainable dairy alternative aims to reduce waste and create new markets for growers.

Intersnack’s proposed partnership with Utz could influence the potato-chip sector, but no changes to potato sourcing, supplier contracts or processing capacity have been announced. Utz’s manufacturing plans disclosed before the deal remain unchanged.

Intersnack Group has agreed to acquire Utz Brands in a deal valued at about USD 2.9 billion. The acquisition will give Intersnack its first major presence in the US snack market, subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals.

Four United States chefs ranked Arby's curly fries as the best fast-food fries, citing their crispy texture, seasoning and consistency. McDonald's and Rally's/Checkers finished second, while the chefs also shared their favourite dipping sauces.

McCain Foods launches a Ceres AI-supported grower pilot program to improve field visibility and decision-making. The AI solution helps potato growers optimize scouting, coordination, and in-season crop management.

Agristo has officially broken ground on its new potato processing facility in Grand Forks, North Dakota. The project is expected to create 300–350 jobs, process 275,000 tons of potatoes annually, and begin production in fall 2029.

A taste test of six frozen sweet potato fry brands ranked Alexia as the best overall for flavor and texture, Ore-Ida as the crispiest, and Sprouts as the top honorable mention, highlighting top picks for burgers, sandwiches, and more.

Agristo has joined the Potato Sustainability Alliance (PSA) as a Processor Member, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable potato production. The move supports industry collaboration as Agristo expands its first U.S. processing facility.

Pringles launched limited-edition Pop Dog Buns, potato-based hot dog buns inspired by Sour Cream & Onion, BBQ and Honey Mustard crisps. The buns will be offered free with a Pringles Three-Pack on July 8 and July 15, while supplies last.

Jesse & Ben’s raised USD 10 million in Series A funding led by Greycroft to expand retail distribution, strengthen its supply chain, and grow its team. The seed-oil-free French fry brand will also launch new sweet potato and crinkle-cut varieties.

The United States Food and Drug Administration has upgraded the recall of selected Utz potato chips under the Zapp's and Dirty brands to a Class I recall due to the potential risk of salmonella contamination.