WASHINGTON (KFYR) – A bipartisan group of U.S. senators is opposing a proposed change in the dietary classification of potatoes.
The USDA and the Departments of Health and Human Services release dietary guidelines every five years, with the latest update to be released in 2025. According to a letter signed by 14 senators, they mention concern over possibly reclassifying potatoes as a grain instead of a vegetable.
The senators, including North Dakota’s Kevin Cramer and John Hoeven, and Montana’s Steve Daines, argue the scientific justification is not strong.
“There is no debate about the physical characteristics of the potato and its horticultural scientific classification. Unlike grains, white potatoes are strong contributors of potassium, calcium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and fiber,” the letter states.
The senators warned the USDA a reclassification would result in consumers missing out on vital nutrients.
“Any change to potatoes’ current classification under the DGAs would immediately confuse consumers, retailers, restaurant operators, growers, and the entire supply chain. That is one of the reasons that the trade groups of both sides of this classification debate have filed comments in opposition to potatoes being defined as anything other than a vegetable,” the letter states.
Dietary guidelines have been released every five years since 1980.
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