News and Stories

Idaho Burbank storage supplies are nearly depleted. New crop, fresh-run packer label Norkotahs are the predominant variety on the market. The quality of remaining Burbank stocks is fair; Markon recommends switching to new crop Norkotahs. Markon First Crop Norkotah Potatoes will be available next week.  

Storage Crop Quality

• During the summer of the 2015-2016 growing season, Idaho experienced record-high temperatures, as well as sudden shifts to freezing weather; these factors have caused inconsistent size and sporadic quality issues in the remaining storage crop Burbank potatoes
• Pressure bruising (soft indentations) is a result of pressure at points of contact with adjacent potatoes or the floor while potatoes sit in storage sheds
• Air checks, which are caused by dehydration, become more prevalent this time of the year; larger cuts are called air cracks and can be caused by mechanical damage  
• To view the pictures highlighting storage crop Burbank quality issues click the following links: pressure bruising and air checks.

2016-2017 New Crop Supplies

• Temperatures have been ideal during the growth phase; very good quality and high yields are predicted
• Fresh-run potatoes will be on the market for the first few months of the season; ordering for quick turns is recommended
• Store potatoes at 40 to 50 degrees F/4.4 to 10 degrees C; 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 a very light, white surface residue that can be easily brushed off and does not pose any quality problems
• To view a picture of new crop Norkotah potatoes, click here. Click here to view a picture of cooler mildew.

Please contact your Markon customer service representative for more information.

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