The new crop potato market in the United States is experiencing a stark divide in supply: while red potatoes are abundantly available, yellow varieties face significant shortages across many regions due to strong demand and lower yields. Markon First Crop (MFC) red and yellow potatoes are available in Idaho and North Dakota, with reds showing plentiful inventory dominated by large-sized tubers. Yellow potatoes, however, are in tight supply as farmers cull tubers with pressure bruises, cracks, greening, and lenticel damage. Industry analysts expect prices to rise over the next six to eight weeks, particularly for yellow potatoes across all sizes and grades.
Regional conditions vary considerably. North Dakota reports stable prices for reds with good quality and dark skin, while high demand for yellows is already driving prices upward. Colorado and Washington maintain adequate supplies, though demand is shifting toward the East Coast, gradually pushing yellow potato prices higher. Florida presents the most challenging situation, where January freeze damage has resulted in shortages across all colors and sizes. Despite the supply constraints, available potatoes are reported to be of very good quality, with strong demand expected to continue through April across all categories.
