Difference Between Idaho and Russet Potatoes

Idaho vs Russet Potatoes

Idaho potatoes are potatoes grown in the state of Idaho in the Unites States, and “Russet” is one of the many varieties of Idaho potatoes or Idaho-grown potatoes grown in Idaho and other states of the U.S. as well.

Idaho Potato
The potatoes grown in the American state of Idaho are called Idaho potatoes. “Idaho potato” and “Grown in Idaho” seals are certifications which have been federally registered. These seals or marks belong to the IPC, Idaho Potato Commission. There are more than 30 different varieties of potatoes grown in Idaho State, yet there is no variety which is called “Idaho potato.” The different varieties of potatoes grown in Idaho are; Russet Burbank, Yukon Gold, Fingerlings, Red, etc. By far the most popular variety of Idaho potato is the Russet Burbank.

Idaho potatoes are well-known throughout the world. What makes them different from potatoes grown in other states is the climate, the volcanic soil, and irrigation which helps in differentiating the taste of the Idaho potato.
The confusion between the Idaho potato and Russet is prevalent. People generically use the term “Russet potato” for “Idaho potato” which was contested by the Southern District of New York, and the judge affirmed that these two terms could not be used interchangeably. A Russet potato is not an Idaho potato. A Russet potato is one of the varieties of Idaho-grown potatoes.

Russet Potato
Russet potatoes are grown in many states of the U.S., but the most well-known Russet is grown in Idaho. It is the most common type of potato in the U.S. They are also called Russet Burbank or Burbank potato. Russet was developed by Luther Burbank in the 1870s, in Lunenburg, Massachusetts by accident. It is derived from a cultivar called the Early Rose.
A Russet potato is oval in shape and has a net-like, russet-colored or brown skin. These are high in vitamin B6, vitamin C, and carbohydrates or starch. The sugar content is high, and 3-4 gm. of dietary fiber is present. Russets have 120-135 calories per average-sized potato and are low in sodium, cholesterol, and saturated fats.

They are used mainly for baking and frying or mashing. They can also be used for boiling and in soups. Russets are specifically not used for making potato chips. The skin of the Russet is considered beneficial for health, thus should be included while cooking.
They should be stored in cool, dark, and dry places, and the temperature should be maintained at 45-50 degrees Fahrenheit. They are fairly affordable and inexpensive, delicious. They are the most popular and well-known potatoes of the United States.

Summary:

“Idaho potato” or “Grown in Idaho” are seals of certifications which have been federally registered by the Idaho Potato Commission (IPC). Idaho potatoes are basically potatoes grown in the State of Idaho in the U.S. There are over 30 varieties of Idaho potatoes grown in Idaho State. No particular variety is called “Idaho” as such. The Russet potato is a variety of Idaho-grown potatoes which are most popular and well known throughout the world.

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