
In some tasty news, February marks National Potato Lovers Month, and a debate is brewing over the classification of potatoes. The U.S. Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee is considering reclassifying potatoes from the vegetable category to the grain category. The committee, responsible for dietary guidelines for all of our country’s food programs, argues that the nutritional value of potatoes aligns more closely with grains due to their starchy nature.
However, many farmers oppose this potential change. They argue that potatoes should not be moved to the grain category, citing their nutritional benefits. But farmers disagree and do not want to see their crop in the bread aisle. A single potato contains more potassium than a banana, the same amount of protein as an egg, and as much vitamin C as a grapefruit, provided it is consumed in its natural form.
But as a potato lover, you most likely consume enjoy these vegetables cut up and fried, or baked with bacon and cheese on top. So, what do you think? Do you believe the potato should stay a veggie, or be reclassified as a grain?
Visit Eliza Petry’s Facebook page to vote!