About the Colorado Potato Administrative Committee

Support for Potato Farms in Colorado Since 1941

The Colorado Potato Administrative Committee (CPAC) was founded in 1941 to support local potato farms in the San Luis Valley. As one of the largest fresh potato-growing regions in the United States, Colorado produces over two billion pounds of potatoes per year. Our committee is dedicated to sorting potato farming facts from fiction and educating people about all things potato. We’re also here to share potato recipes and to rekindle the public’s love for potatoes as an American dietary staple. We work hard to cultivate lasting relationships with local growers, shippers, and buyers. For generations, people have discovered the San Luis Valley secret to quality produce. We invite you to taste the difference today!

The History of Potato Farming in the San Luis Valley

Potato farming has been around since at least 8000 BC and doesn’t appear to be slowing down any time soon. The potato is here to stay, especially in this region. Potato farming and the San Luis Valley go hand-in-hand, with the first local potato farms dating back to the 1880s. The nutrient-rich soil, pure mountain water, and plethora of sunshine make the San Luis Valley the perfect potato-growing paradise. From red, yellow, and blue potatoes to russets, fingerlings, and specialty varieties like Purple Majesty and Kennebec, over 70 varieties of potatoes are produced in the state of Colorado alone. No two potatoes are ever quite the same, and our local potato farms are still going strong today. Our committee puts on the San Luis Valley Potato Festival every year, which brings together potato lovers of all ages. But that’s not all we do. If you’re a local grower, we’re here to support you with potato industry resources, including the Colorado Potato Committee Market Report. If you’re a buyer, we’re here to tell you about potato nutrition and where to buy potatoes.

Are Potatoes Gluten-Free? Sorting Facts About a Potato Diet

Potatoes are naturally gluten-free, making them the perfect substitute for bread or pasta at any meal. Many people are surprised to discover the health benefits of potatoes, which contain even more potassium than a banana. Potatoes are also an excellent source of fiber. Potassium is a mineral beneficial in lowering a person’s blood pressure, while fiber is essential in maintaining bowel health. Potatoes are also chock-full of antioxidants and phytonutrients. Although the skin contains half of the potato’s dietary fiber, over 50% of the nutrients are found within the potato itself. If you’re interested in maintaining the most nutritional value in your potato diet, steaming and microwaving are among the best methods of cooking potatoes, as boiling and baking them results in more significant nutrient loss. Wondering how long potatoes are good for inside your pantry? Check out our storage tips for more information about making them last.

Powering Performance for Athletes and Active Lifestyles

Many people worry about potato carbs when dieting. However, potatoes provide the right amount of carbohydrates, potassium, and energy to fuel athletes and those who lead an active lifestyle. Packed with nutrients, it’s no wonder he Potatoes USA “What Are You Eating?” campaign has consumers questioning the power of potatoes. Learn more about how to “Power Your Performance” here.

Contact Us for Assistance or to Learn More About Our Events

Would you like to learn more about the Colorado Potato Administrative Committee? Please reach out to us today via phone or email and let us know how we may be of assistance. We encourage you to sign up for our monthly newsletter for healthy potato recipes, the latest potato industry news, updates on the San Luis Valley Potato Festival, and more!