12 Surprising Facts About Potatoes You Never Learned in School—For International Day of Potato
Potatoes might seem ordinary, but they have a long, unexpected story full of surprises. From ancient empires to space travel, this humble crop has made its mark in ways you probably never learned in class. Celebrating the International Day of Potato is the perfect chance to dig into some little-known facts.
- Tricia Quitales
- 3 min read
Everyone knows potatoes as a popular food, but there’s more to them than just fries and mashed sides. Behind their simple appearance is a rich history and some strange, even unbelievable facts. Potatoes have played a role in shaping nations, feeding space missions, and even fueling eco-friendly ideas. These 12 surprising potato facts will leave you looking at your next meal a little differently.
1. Potatoes Were First Grown Over 7,000 Years Ago
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The first potatoes were cultivated by ancient farmers in the Andes Mountains of South America. Indigenous people developed thousands of varieties to suit different climates and uses. Long before fast food, potatoes were already feeding civilizations.
2. They Helped End Famines and Start Migrations
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Potatoes became a key crop in Europe, helping to reduce hunger. However, when a potato disease struck Ireland in the 1800s, it caused a deadly famine and mass migration. One small vegetable had a huge global impact.
3. Potatoes Are Grown in Space
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NASA and scientists have grown potatoes in space-like conditions to study how crops might grow on Mars. They chose potatoes because they are hearty, nutrient-rich, and grow fast. One day, astronauts may survive on space spuds.
4. There Are Over 4,000 Potato Varieties
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While stores sell only a few kinds, there are actually thousands of potato types around the world. They come in colors like purple, red, and blue, with flavors that range from nutty to sweet. Many of these are still grown by Indigenous farmers.
5. Potatoes Were Once Feared in Europe
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When introduced to Europe, some people thought potatoes were poisonous or caused illness. They were even blamed for spreading leprosy and were banned in some places. It took time and royal endorsement to win people over.
6. They Can Power a Clock
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Potatoes can produce small amounts of electricity when used in a simple science experiment. The starch inside helps create a reaction that powers things like digital clocks. It’s not enough to run your home, but it’s still impressive.
7. The World’s Largest Potato Weighed Over 10 Pounds
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One giant potato grown in the UK made headlines for its massive size. It was heavier than a bowling ball and needed two hands to carry. While not great for eating, it was a record-breaker.
8. They’re 80% Water
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Despite their starchy taste, potatoes are mostly made of water. That’s why they feel moist inside when cooked and why they can spoil if not stored properly. They may be solid, but they’re surprisingly juicy on the inside.
9. You Can Make Biodegradable Plastic from Potatoes
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Some companies use potato starch to make eco-friendly packaging and plastic alternatives. These materials break down faster than regular plastic and don’t harm the environment. Potatoes might help fight pollution one day.
10. Potatoes Have Their Own Holiday in Peru
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Peru, where potatoes were first grown over 7,000 years ago, celebrates National Potato Day every May. The country honors the crop with festivals, music, and massive potato tastings, a proud tribute to its rich agricultural history.
11. A Potato Was Once Used to Film a Commercial
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A well-lit, carefully styled potato once doubled for a moon rock in a food ad. Filmmakers used it because it looked just like the surface of the moon on camera. It’s proof that potatoes have star power, too.
12. They Can Absorb Toxins from Water
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Research shows that potato peels can absorb heavy metals and toxins from polluted water. This makes them a low-cost tool for cleaning up the environment. Your dinner scraps could help purify the planet.