The History of Potatoes

Potatoes originated in the Andes mountains of South America.  They had to withstand poor soil and freezing temperatures.  They were first cultivated over 7,000 years ago as they could be stored and also offered nutritional value.

In 1570 the potato made its way across the Atlantic to Europe.  In 1780 the people of Ireland adopted the potato, primarily because of its ability to produce abundant, nutritious food.  Unlike any other major crop, potatoes contain most of the vitamins needed for sustenance which are now taken for granted in the Western diet.