Last Updated:May 30, 2025, 07:10 is

International Day of Potato celebrates the vegetable’s impact on food security, nutrition, and economy.

International Day Of Potato: Potatoes are undoubtedly everyone’s favourite vegetable. Fried, mashed, or baked—they are the ultimate comfort food used to make an array of treats and dishes. What’s even more interesting is that the humble vegetable is adaptable to diverse climates and has relatively low resource requirements, making it an indispensable crop for millions. To celebrate this versatile vegetable, the world marks International Day of Potato on May 30 every year.

People recognise the profound impact of this humble vegetable on food security, nutrition, economic stability and cultural heritage globally. Also, let’s check out the history, significance, some unknown facts and delicious dishes to try:

International Day Of Potato 2025: History

Originating in the Andes Mountains of South America thousands of years ago, the potato was introduced to Europe in the 16th century. It was subsequently spread across the globe, transforming diets and agricultural practices. In December 2023, the United Nations General Assembly formally declared May 30 as the International Day of Potato. The day is celebrated to raise awareness of the multiple values of the potato and its contribution as an invaluable food resource.

International Day Of Potato 2025: Significance

The day aims to raise public awareness about the nutritional, economic, social and environmental importance of the potato. The International Day of Potato also serves as a platform to encourage practices that support potato cultivation in an environmentally and economically sustainable manner. This day emphasises the contributions of potatoes in improving food security, nutrition and livelihoods.

International Day Of Potato 2025: Key Facts

• About 2/3 of the world’s population consumes potatoes as its staple food, and nearly 50 per cent of potatoes are used as household staple food or vegetables.
• It is the third most consumed food crop worldwide, after rice and wheat, feeding over a billion people.
• Potatoes are also a climate-friendly crop, as they produce lower levels of greenhouse gas emissions than other crops.
• Potatoes have very low fat, low heat and high dietary fibre, and the fat content is only 0.1 per cent to 1.1 per cent.
• The potato consumption in China, India and Bangladesh accounted for more than 40 per cent of the world.
• Asia and Africa are the regions with the fastest growth of potato production in the world, and North Africa, adjacent to Europe, has superior geographical advantages.
• Every war in Europe has promoted the increase of potato planting area from 1560 to World War II.
• Potatoes are resistant to drought and cold, and are barren with wide adaptability. The soil and climate conditions in most parts of the world can meet its growth conditions.

International Day Of Potato 2025: 5 Potato Dishes From Around The World

If you need some inspiration on how to cook potatoes for your next craving, try whipping up one of these dishes from across the world.

1. Huancaína Pope (Peru): Originally from Huancayo in Peru, it is a quintessential Peruvian appetiser of boiled potatoes. It is draped in a creamy, spicy sauce made from queso fresco, aji amarillo, red onion, garlic and evaporated milk. The finishing touch with olives and hard-boiled eggs make it a delightful appetiser that speaks volumes about the vibrant flavours of Peru.
2. Poutine (Canada): Another comforting and indulgent dish that you must try is poutine. The dish features French fries topped with cheese curds and a rich brown gravy. First originated in Quebec in the late 1950s, this dish is served immediately after combining the main three components to maintain the crispy texture of the fries.
3. Rosti (Switzerland): Often called the national dish of Switzerland, rosti is a traditional dish of coarsely grated potatoes. It was originally a popular breakfast option, but now, it is served as a side dish with bratwurst and onion gravy or sliced veal or pork in a cream sauce. The mouth-watering dish is made only with potatoes, sometimes topped with ingredients like fried egg, bacon, onion, cheese, apple or fresh herbs.
4. Colcannon (Ireland): Often associated with St Patrick’s Day, Colcannon is a traditional hearty Irish comfort food. It is made with mashed potatoes, kale or cabbage, salt, pepper and oodles of butter. Adding to this flavourful and creamy dish, the greens and scallions are mingled like a picture in a dream.
5. Gnocchi (Italy): Soft, small dumplings typically made from cooked mashed potatoes, flour and egg are a must-try. They are often served with various sauces, from simple butter and sage to rich tomato-based ragus, to create a wholesome and filling meal.

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