United States

The United States is the  largest potato producer globally, with major cultivation in Idaho, Washington, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. In 2024, U.S. potato production was estimated at 420 million hundredweight (cwt), with Idaho alone contributing over 30%, earning its title as the "Potato State". The widely grown Russet Burbank variety is favored for its high yield and use in processing.

About 63% of potatoes are processed into products like French fries, chips, and dehydrated potatoes, while the rest go to the fresh market or are used for seed and feed. Roughly one-third of total production is frozen, with 85% of that used for French fries.

In 2015, U.S. per capita potato consumption was 115.4 pounds, including 49.7 pounds frozen, 34.1 pounds fresh, and 19.8 pounds in chip form, reflecting the strong consumer demand and advanced processing infrastructure supporting the U.S. potato industry.

Potatoes were introduced to the United States by European settlers in the early 17th century, quickly adapting to the country’s diverse climates and soils. By 1719, the first potato patch in North America was planted in New Hampshire, marking the beginning of widespread cultivation. Over time, potatoes became a staple crop in regions like Idaho, Washington, and Maine, where the conditions were ideal for large-scale production. In the 19th century, advancements in agricultural research and extension services led to improved cultivation techniques, better yields, and increased disease resistance. The development of specialized varieties, such as the Russet Burbank—a variety crucial for French fry processing—further solidified the potato’s role in U.S. agriculture, making it a key crop in both the food industry and American farming history.