Our Potatoes Pack a Punch

More than a potential profit powerhouse, potatoes also pack nutritional PUNCH. With some

Colorado Potato varieties studied, we have found levels of Iron, Vitamin B6, Folate and many other nutrients far exceeding the Recommended Daily Allowance set by the FDA.

Recent studies have also found that some of Colorado’s colored varieties –  our Purple Majesty, particularly – contain lycopene and other powerful antioxidants. Studies are also underway that compare the role our soil, altitude and climate play in delivering a healthier potato: one that does not rely on pesticides.  

Important as well, Colorado Potatoes delivers great flavor in smaller sizes. This is ideal for those growing households now preparing smaller servings to help control weight.  Then there are those specialty varieties – like our French Fingerlings – that is a favorite with kids for both their fun size and unique, nutty flavor.

Beyond the nutrition message, note also that potatoes deliver on the value side.  With many households watching their food budgets, one large baked potato with a healthy fresh salsa topping can deliver less calories yet satisfy the appetite for pennies on the dollar.

A 100-gram Colorado Russet baked with skin has only 110 calories and almost no fat.

Although the potato appears to be a bulky vegetable, it is 80 percent water, just a little less than in milk. Its association with high calorie toppings like butter, sour cream, gravy and mayonnaise dressing to name a few, puts the low calorie potato at a disadvantage. Just one tablespoon of butter will double the number of calories in a baked potato. There are many low calorie ways to prepare potatoes deliciously.

Here are just a few tasty low/no calorie ideas:

  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Whipped butter and poppy seeds
  • A spoon full of stewed tomatoes and a bit of grated cheese
  • Melted butter or margarine thinned with lemon juice
  • A mix of dried herbs: parsley, chives, basil, dill
  • Mock sour cream (cottage cheese and lemon juice whipped in a blender)
  • Chopped onion with coarsely grated black pepper
  • Chive-spiked yogurt
  • Salsa