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  • Cory Summerhays

The History of Idaho Potatoes and Where They Came From

You have arrived at the right location if the history of potatoes in Idaho is something that interests you. The Russet Burbank variety, Sun Glo of Idaho Inc., and J.R. Simplot are all topics that will be covered in this article. Continue reading to find out more. In this essay, we will talk about the history of potatoes grown in Idaho and some of the more noteworthy people associated with the industry. After all, it was they who provided us with the potatoes that we consume to this day.


Luther C. Burbank, a specialist in plant breeding, is credited with developing the Russet Burbank type of Idaho potato in 1875. This variety produces long and large tubers with shallow eyes and flesh that is white and dry. Baking, steaming, and oven-frying are all beautiful ways to prepare this potato. In addition to that, potato pancakes made with it are delicious. This scab-resistant potato type may be grown in most environments, although it does require a steady supply of moisture during the growing process. It is an excellent selection of gardens that are not too large. This cultivar produces tubers that are of a good grade and will store well for an extended period.


The Russet Burbank potato saw its first harvest for commercial purposes in the year 1907. The first step in increasing the value of potatoes was taken when it was first introduced. Burbank also earned a name for himself as an outstanding plant breeder, even though his methods of breeding plants were not the most systematic. He did not take detailed notes and instead relied on his memory to keep track of the breeding of different species. Despite this, Burbank never gave up and never slowed down in his pursuit of knowledge and his endeavors. Because of his dogged determination, he created several kinds of the Russet Burbank potato, which has since become the standard potatoes in the United States.


Sun-Glo of Idaho Inc., a business that has just filed its federal tax returns, is the best option for you to go with if you are seeking a provider of potatoes. This business is featured on the website inside the "manufacturers" section of the navigation bar. In addition, the telephone number provided to the left may be used to get in touch with the business if you are looking for a firm that specializes in manufacturing potatoes. Sugar City, Idaho, serves as the location of this company's headquarters.


Sun-Glo of Idaho Inc., which has its headquarters in Sugar City, Idaho, is a potato farmer that has been in business for four generations. The Teton Mountain Range serves as the backdrop for the establishment responsible for the cultivation of some of the finest potatoes in the state of Idaho. Additionally, the "Sun Supreme" brand of onions may be purchased from this business.


The Sun-Glo of Idaho firm had its start in the 1960s as a potato-packing and shipping enterprise in Sugar City, Idaho, which is located at the base of the Teton mountain range. Today, the company is still owned and operated by the same family that founded it. It is the company's mission to provide its clients with the highest-quality potatoes that are also grown using techniques that have been passed down through the family for centuries. Under the brand name Sun Supreme, the firm also sells onions that are cultivated in the state of Idaho. Its quality control procedures cover the entire production process, from the seed to the fork.


Sugar City, Idaho, was the location in 1979 when the Sun-Glo Potato Company first opened its doors. It distributes its wares to various food manufacturing facilities as well as grocery stores across the continental United States. In the past, the firm depended on a manual procedure for loading and tracking potatoes, which resulted in damaged relationships with the company's customers and left the company vulnerable to significant fines. Descartes MacroPoint, a real-time freight visibility system, was used by the organization to enhance delivery performance and better manage shipment interruptions.


After Simplot finished his education, he went to work in the potato industry as a sorter. In subsequent years, he supplemented his income by tearing canal banks and shoring up canals as a side job. After some time, he worked hard and eventually became successful enough to develop his firm. In the end, he was the owner of forty acres of property and had purchased fifty percent of an electric potato sorter. After that, he established himself as a prominent potato grower.


In addition to being a wealthy potato farmer, J.R. Simplot was also a business entrepreneur who established production facilities for fertilizer around the state of Idaho. In 1973, he took his retirement from the corporation, but he continued to serve as chairman of the board. Even though he was no longer actively involved in the company, his position was changed from executive chairman to chairman emeritus. Because he was so active in agriculture, the firm began growing crops other than potatoes due to his efforts.


Boise, Idaho, served as the Simplot Company's headquarters location. During World War II, this business grew to become the nation's leading shipper of fresh potatoes. Because of his incredible success, George Simplot amassed an empire of over 36 states. Even mining and fertilizer businesses were under his control. Despite his humility, Simplot was recognized for his contributions to the development of the potato business.

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