News and Stories

Large size (40- through 70-count) Idaho Norkotahs continue to dominate the crop. Small-size stocks (90- through 100-count) are limited at this time. The majority of fresh-run Norkotahs are being packed in U.S. No. 1 cartons, as supplies look their best straight out of the field. This is limiting U.S. No. 2 production and putting a strain on some U.S. No. 1 carton production, 90- and 100-count in particular, as potatoes that would make No. 1 grade are being used to help fill No. 2 grade orders. No. 2 supplies will increase over the next few weeks (once potatoes are shipped out of storage). Markon First Crop (MFC) Norkotah Potatoes are available. 

Limited quantities of new crop, fresh-run Burbank stocks are available; supplies will increase through October. Early reports from growers are showing a similar size profile as the Norkotah variety; large sizes (40- through 70-count) are expected to dominate the crop, while small-size (90- through 100-count) potato supplies are expected to be limited. MFC Burbank Potatoes will begin shipping in late October/early November (once they complete the sweat process). 

• 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 Norkotahs and Burbanks 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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