News and Stories

Markon First Crop (MFC) Norkotah Potatoes are readily available for shipment in Eastern Idaho. Large sizes (40- through 70-count stocks) dominate the crop. Growers are shipping fewer small-size stocks (90- through 100-count potatoes) at this time. The majority of fresh-run potatoes will be packed in U.S. No. 1 cartons, as supplies will look their best straight out of the field. This will limit U.S. No. 2 potatoes and shift demand toward U.S. No. 1 stocks, especially 90- and 100-count sizes. No. 2 supplies will increase over the next few weeks (once more potatoes are shipped out of storage). 

Limited quantities of new crop, fresh-run Burbank stocks will be available this week; supplies will increase through October. MFC Burbank Potatoes will begin shipping in late October/early November (once they complete the sweat process). 

• Growing temperatures remain high; pulp temperatures are above normal 
• Store potatoes at 40 to 50 degrees F; adequate air flow is recommended 
• Product should not be wrapped tightly in plastic nor stored where it cannot breathe well
• New crop supplies have not gone through the sweat process yet
• Potatoes may release moisture as they cool, causing very light, white surface residue that can be easily brushed off and does not pose any quality problems
• The white residue will dissipate as potatoes dry
• During this time of the season, sheds will pack boxes heavier-than-normal by adding more potatoes because they sweat/release excess moisture and condensation that is absorbed by the corrugated carton; this action step ensures weight specifications are met
• Markon anticipates less moisture in potato shipments by early October  

Please contact your Markon customer service representative for more information.

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