J U L Y / A U G U S T 2 0 1 9 6 POTATO GROWER John Toaspern, Chief Marketing Officer, Jill Rittenberg Global Marketing Manager, Potatoes, USA While potatoes may be an age-old dietary staple, new research continues to emerge on a regular basis about the nutrition benefits of America’s favorite vegetable. Most recently, two review articles about the nutritional benefits of potatoes in the diet were published in the American Journal of Potato Research: “Potato as a Source of Nutrition for Physical Performance” by Mitch Kanter, PhD, and Chelsea Elkin, MS, RD, CDN, discussed the latest science on nutrition needs for optimal physical performance. The article focuses on the potential pos- itive impact of high-quality, nutrient- dense carbohydrates versus low-quality carbohydrates on performance, the nutritional benefits of white potatoes, the merits of a balanced diet for ath- letes, the role of calorie dense simple sugars on performance and the evolving role of protein in the athlete’s diet. “Potatoes, Nutrition and Health” by Dr. Katherine Beals, PhD, RD, FACSM, CSSD, examined potatoes as a dietary staple, noting that their hardiness, economy and nutrient density make potatoes an invaluable crop around the world. The research review included an overview of potato nutrient content as well as a critical evaluation of the exist- ing – and sometimes controversial - research examining potatoes; ranging from the glycemic index, diabetes, chronic disease and weight gain. In addition, the potato industry is investing in scientific research covering a range of potato nutrition subjects, including special emphasis on research that will continue to explore the role of potatoes athletic performance. Athletic- performance focused research currently underway by the Alliance of Potato Research & Education (APRE) includes the following five studies with anticipat- ed journal publication beginning in 2020. • Ingestion of Potatoes as a Nutritional Strategy to Improve Cycling Time-Trial Performance in Endurance Trained Cyclists, Nicholas Burd, PhD, University of Illinois. • Anabolic Properties of Potato Derived Protein, Luc van Loon, PhD, Maastricht University. • Effects of Potato-Based Supplemental Feedings on Glycogen Recovery, Exercise Performance, Brent Ruby, PhD, FACSM, University of Montana. • Potato-Supported Strategies to Increase Carbohydrate Oxidation, Race Economy and Performance during Endurance Exercise, Louise Burke, PhD, Australian Institute of Sport. • The Effects of Potato Protein on Rates of Myofibrillar Muscle Protein Synthesis in Young Women, Stuart Phillips, PhD, Potatoes USA Mes sage Potato Nutrition - What’s Hot And What’s Not