5 interesting facts about Potatoes

1. Potatoes are native to South America.

2. Potatoes are the world’s fourth largest food crop. China is the largest producer followed by India. Together, these two countries account for a third of the world’s production.

3. There are over 5,000 varieties of potatoes grown worldwide. Nearly 3,000 varieties are found in the Andes region alone. There are even purple and blue potatoes!

4. Potatoes contain toxic compounds called glycoalkaloids. These are concentrated in the green flowers, sprouts and leaves.

5. Vodka, Potcheen and Akvavit are alcoholic beverages brewed from potatoes!