Potato harvest in the U.S. smaller than predicted

The potato harvest in the United States is coming in smaller than predicted in recent months. Figures from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) indicate that the harvest is over 400,000 tons smaller than the expectations published in September and October. Until recently, it was assumed that this year's harvest would be at the same level as in 2024. The USDA's estimate is significantly lower. The department's statisticians aim for a harvest of 18.7 million tons this year. That is 405,000 metric tons or 2.1% less than a year ago. The main differences in the estimates from recent months can be found in the states with the most potatoes. In potato state Idaho, production has not increased as much as expected, while the decline in Washington is larger than previously estimated. In Idaho, earlier estimates projected production to increase by nearly 5%. The USDA does not agree with this and estimates an increase of 2.3% compared to last year. The state with the most potatoes will produce around 6.3 million tons of potatoes this year. Washington is the second most important state in potato cultivation. Production is decreasing significantly this year. Compared to last year, the harvest is over 10% smaller, totaling 4 million metric tons. This is due to a smaller area under cultivation. However, yields were good, averaging nearly 71 metric tons per hectare. Also, across the entire U.S., yields are slightly better than last year. The average this year, according to the USDA, is nearly 52 metric tons per hectare. That is 1.5% more than a year ago.