The Idaho Potato Commission (IPC), established in 1937, is a state agency mandated to promote and protect the integrity and quality of Idaho-grown potatoes. Representing Idaho’s potato growers, shippers, and processors, IPC plays a pivotal role in positioning Idaho potatoes as a globally recognized agricultural product with a reputation for excellence.
Core Business and Product Offerings
The IPC focuses exclusively on marketing, promoting, and safeguarding the "Grown in Idaho®" certification for potatoes. Idaho’s unique climate, rich volcanic soil, and abundant irrigation result in superior-quality potatoes, particularly the renowned Russet Burbank variety.
Primary Product Categories:
- Fresh Potatoes: Russet, Red, Yellow, Fingerling, and Organic varieties
- Processed Products: Frozen fries, dehydrated flakes and granules
- Branded Merchandise: Apparel, accessories, promotional materials
Specialization and Unique Value Proposition
Idaho is the only U.S. state with a federally protected geographic certification for its potatoes. The "Grown in Idaho®" seal ensures buyers receive potatoes cultivated under the state’s strict quality and growing standards. This has positioned Idaho potatoes as the #1 potato brand in America, both in retail and foodservice segments.
Financial Insights
As a state commission, IPC does not disclose conventional financials like private companies. However, the impact of its marketing efforts is evident in the scale and consistency of Idaho potato exports:
- Annual Idaho potato production: Over 13 billion pounds (approx. 6 million metric tons)
- Economic impact of Idaho’s potato industry: Exceeds $4.5 billion annually
- Global exports: Potatoes from Idaho reach over 20 international markets, including Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Mexico
Export & Shipment Records
According to Volza and US export records:
- Idaho potatoes are consistently among the top U.S. agricultural exports
- Over 180,000 MT of frozen and fresh potatoes shipped annually from Idaho
- Top destinations: Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, Malaysia, and Canada
- IPC partners with U.S. agricultural trade offices to increase brand presence in Asia
Target Markets
IPC’s marketing initiatives target:
- Retail chains
- HORECA (Hotel, Restaurant, Catering) sector
- Foodservice distributors
- International importers, especially in Asia-Pacific and Latin America
Specific market development programs are in place for:
- Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Indonesia)
- East Asia (Japan, South Korea, Taiwan)
- Middle East and Latin America
Capabilities and Marketing Initiatives
- Global Campaigns: IPC runs multilingual campaigns tailored to local cultures, including chef partnerships and cooking contests
- Trade Shows: Regular participation in major global exhibitions such as Foodex Japan, FHA Singapore, and SIAL China
- Retail Promotions: Seasonal co-branded promotions with retailers in Asia and the U.S.
- Training Programs: IPC provides training and educational resources to international distributors and retailers about Idaho potato handling, preparation, and quality differentiation
Certifications and Compliance
- "Grown in Idaho®" Certification Mark – U.S. federally registered certification
- USDA GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) – Mandatory for all Idaho potato growers
- Certified Organic – Available for selected Idaho potato growers
- HACCP, ISO, and FDA compliance – Observed by Idaho potato processors and packers
Customer Testimonials
“The Idaho potato has become a symbol of trust in our fresh produce section. Customers know what they’re getting — consistency, taste, and quality.”
— Retail Produce Manager, AEON Malaysia
“As a chef, quality is paramount. Idaho potatoes give us the versatility and performance we need across dishes.”
— Executive Chef, 5-Star Hotel, Singapore
Major Achievements
- World’s Largest Potato on Wheels: IPC’s Big Idaho® Potato Truck campaign reached over 1 million people annually across U.S. states, boosting consumer engagement
- International Market Development Awards: Recognized by USDA and Foreign Agricultural Service for excellence in export promotion
- Top-of-Mind Recall: Named most recognized potato brand in consumer surveys in the U.S. and Japan
- Social Media Reach: Over 500,000+ followers combined across platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube
The Idaho Potato Commission remains a leading global authority and promotional powerhouse for potato exports, ensuring that Idaho-grown potatoes remain synonymous with excellence across the world’s culinary and retail landscapes.