The selection of consumer bags and specialty potato offerings is on the rise.
Wada Farms Marketing Group based in Idaho Falls, Idaho, has “an array of specialty items,” says Eric Beck, marketing director.
Offerings include 1.5-pound mesh bags, individually wrapped microwaveable russet potatoes, premium tray packs and premium foil-wrapped russet potatoes.
“The specialty market continues to grow,” he says. “The mini-potato market continues to gain more and more market share as consumers gravitate toward smaller pack sizes.”
Time-starved consumers want ready-to-go offerings because they’re convenient for meal preparation, he adds.
Eagle Eye Produce in Idaho Falls offers value-added items like microwaveable single-wrapped potatoes, steam bags, boil bags, tray packs and pillow packs, says Coleman Oswald, director of sales.
“We offer everything from single-wrapped potatoes and small packs, like 1.5-pound all the way up to 5- and 10-pound bags, as well as bulk 50-pound cartons and bags,” he says.
The company has about an even split between bulk and consumer packs, Oswald says.
“In recent years, demand for packaged product has grown as shoppers look for convenience, and we’ve invested significantly into packing equipment for our retail programs,” he says.
Last year, the company introduced a potato bag made with 25% post-consumer recycled content, and this year it was improved it to 30%, Oswald says.
The bag is in distribution with major retailers across the country.
Pleasant Valley Potato Inc., Aberdeen, Idaho, which grows russet potatoes exclusively, ships mostly 5-pound bags as well as some 3-, 4- and 10-pounders, says Ryan Wahlen, sales manager.
There’s a foil-wrapped niche item for foodservice customers, he says.
About 70% of the company’s potatoes are sold in bags.
