North Carolina, which produces half of the nation’s sweet potatoes, recently started its 2016-2017 harvest.
“Right now the crop looks good, the quality is good, the color and size are uniform,” explained Jeff Thomas of Scott Farms, a sixth-generation farming operation that grows six varieties of the root vegetable.
Drier than average weather has caused a slightly later harvest, as growers needed more moisture to allow the sweet potatoes to size up. “The rain from tropical storm Hermine was a welcome sight,” said Thomas.
What they are getting more of is demand.
“Demand for sweet potatoes is growing every year. More people are seeing sweet potatoes as a staple item,” described Thomas.
According to the USDA sweet potato consumption increased over 80 percent between 2000-2015, going from 4.2 lbs. per capita to 7.5 lbs. per capita.
“People are realizing the health benefits of sweet potatoes. They are a diabetic friendly food, as they allow for a slow release of the potato’s sugars and carbohydrates, sweet potatoes don’t give you a sugar crash,” explained Thomas.
Capitalizing on the increased interest in the commodity, Scott Farms offers a single wrapped heat and serve sweet potato, marketed under their Love Sweet Potato name, as well as items such as Scott Farms orange, purple and white sweet potato chips.
For more information:
Jeff Thomas
Scott Farms
Tel: 919.284.4030
