EEUU.: Potatoes continued to be a major menu item in 2024

One reason potatoes are on most menus in the U.S., regardless of area, is their versatility, which allows them to complement a wide variety of foods and flavor profiles from many cultural backgrounds. Nonetheless, there are minor variations in the number of potatoes served in various food service segments: fast casual: 71.7%; quick-service: 73.7%; midscale: 85.6%; casual: 88.2%; fine dining: 90.5%.

Potatoes are typically served with chicken, hot sandwiches, and egg dishes as part of a combo or multi-protein dish on entrée and side menus. Even though they are less prevalent among appetizers, almost half of all appetizer menus still have them.

Traditional American food makes up more than one-third of potato choices, but Gen Z (those between the ages of 18 and 28) has demonstrated a greater preference for an array of international varieties. Classic Mexican flavors like chamoy and Tajín; Asian cuisine mainstays like gochujang, black vinegar, eel sauce, and ponzu; and spicy flavors like chili crisp, diablos sauce, and Nashville hot are some of the newest and most popular flavors for this age group.

Even while fries were still the most common potato item on menus and were enjoyed by all customers, popular types included Greek, Italian, and carne asada fries as well as topping variants such as loaded, truffle, and buffalo chicken fries. Nonetheless, basic, curly, seasoned, crinkle-cut, and home fries were the most popular varieties among all age groups.

Traditional mashed potatoes along with loaded and garlic variants, loaded baked potatoes, potato skins, and twice-baked potatoes are some of Gen Z’s favorite comfort food favorites that also appeal to older generations.

In the U.S., potato consumption reached 19m tons by June 1, 2024, marking an 8% increase from the same period in the previous year. This uptick was accompanied by a 19% rise in potato storage, indicating robust demand and efficient processing capabilities.