Fourteen senators are urging the departments of Agriculture (USDA) and Health and Human Services (HHS) to maintain the classification of potatoes as a vegetable. The senators argue that potatoes should not be considered a grain but rather a vegetable based on their nutritional benefits, physical characteristics, and horticultural scientific classification. The 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee is currently reviewing potential changes to food groups, including the interchangeability of starchy vegetables and grains. The senators express concerns about the practical implications of reclassifying potatoes, such as confusion among consumers, retailers, and the entire supply chain. They also highlight the impact on federal nutrition programs and school food programs. This is not the first time the classification of vegetables and nutrition standards for school meals has been scrutinized. In 2011, the potato industry opposed a limit on servings of starchy vegetables per week, and the Senate passed a measure to prevent the USDA from imposing caps. The bipartisan group of senators represents states including Colorado, Idaho, Maine, North Dakota, Oregon, Nebraska, Montana, Michigan, and Washington.
US senators Susan Collins and Michael Bennet are opposing a US government proposal to reclassify potatoes as grains instead of vegetables. The senators argue that potatoes should be classified as vegetables because they contribute critical nutrients such as potassium, calcium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and fiber. They also highlight that potato farming contributes USD 540 million in annual sales to the economy of Collins's state, Maine, and is linked to 6,100 jobs. The proposal to reclassify potatoes appears in the forthcoming Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2025-2030, produced jointly by the US Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health and Human Services.
Sweet potatoes have been cultivated for at least 5,000 years and are enjoyed throughout the year. They offer a host of nutritional benefits, including being low in calories, helping stabilize blood sugar, and containing high levels of vitamin A and beta-carotene. Sweet potatoes also promote gut health and may reduce inflammation. They are a versatile and nutritious addition to any diet. [e29c8c56]