Close-up of potatoes in basket

Ask Dr. Potato

With everything our potato experts know, they should be called doctors! Have a question? Dr. Potato will be sure to get your question answered within a week.

With 928 posts, chances are there's already an answer to your question. Please try searching below before submitting a question to Dr. Potato.

Back To Questions

Question

Q&A: Test for High Solids Content in Potatoes

Is there any kind of a test that I can do in my operation to be able to tell if the raw potatoes I receive will fry up properly?

Answer

Good question, thanks for asking.  Most important, make sure you always use genuine Idaho® potatoes.  The high water-content of some non-Idaho russet potatoes can result in a mushy, steamed texture, as well as lower yield.  Idaho® potatoes, with an average of 21% potato solids, assure superior texture, great flavor and a crisp, golden appearance.  Here is an easy solution you can prepare to pre-test the potatoes that come in the back door. The second slide chart shows where the “ideal” solids average fits into a scale:simple test

High Solids Chart

Dr. Potato isn't a real doctor but a team of potato experts ready to answer all your potato questions.

Ask a Question