Potatoes are the largest and most affordable source of potassium of any vegetable or fruit

A frequently expressed concern in the ongoing public health debate is that fresh fruits and vegetables, particularly those that are nutrient dense, are not affordable to the average consumer. Research presented today at the American Dietetic Association's (ADA) Food and Nutrition Conference and Expo (FNCE) demonstrates that potatoes are one of the best nutritional values in the produce department, providing significantly better nutritional value per dollar than most other raw vegetables. Per serving, white potatoes were the largest and most affordable source of potassium of any vegetable or fruit.

Dr. Adam Drewnowski and colleagues from the University of Washington merged nutrient composition data from the USDA Food and Nutrition Database for Dietary Studies (FNDDS 2.0) with the USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion (CNPP) national food prices database. Frequency of consumption data was obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES 2003-4). The Affordable Nutrition Index (ANI) was the metric used to assess nutritional value per dollar for potatoes and for other vegetables.

Potatoes were the lowest cost source of dietary potassium, a nutrient identified by the 2010 Dietary Guidelines as lacking in the American diet. The high cost of meeting federal dietary guidelines for potassium, 4,700 mg per person per day, presents a challenge for consumers and health professionals, alike. However, the cost of potassium-rich white potatoes was half that of most other vegetables.

"Potatoes deserve credit for contributing to higher diet quality and increasing vegetable consumption," said lead researcher Adam Drewnowski, PhD. "Potatoes also play an important role in providing affordable nutrition to Americans. You CAN afford to meet key dietary guidelines IF you include potatoes in your diet."

The potato, classified as a starchy vegetable, is so versatile it can be eaten for breakfast or dinner and prepared as a side dish or the main meal. Potatoes contain carbohydrates - the macronutrient consisting of sugar molecules - that the body can easily break down and use for energy. Potatoes contain no fat, no cholesterol and minimal sodium, making them a good addition to a heart-healthy diet. In addition, potatoes serve as an excellent source of potassium, an essential mineral important for a healthy cardiovascular system.

Potassium Content

A lot of nutritional information indicates that it is good to refrain from eating foods high in carbohydrates, such as potatoes. However, carbohydrates are a necessary macronutrient and the National Institute of Medicine Food and Nutrition Board recommends that 45 to 65 percent of your daily calories come from carbohydrates. Choosing carbohydrates that also provide other essential vitamins and minerals helps you to meet all of your nutritional needs. Therefore potatoes, a vegetable packed with vitamins and minerals, can be incorporated into a healthy diet when eaten in moderation. Potatoes are one of the best sources of dietary potassium, providing 620 mg.