Fact Check: Dehydrated Potatoes

Are instant potatoes made from real potatoes?

Yes. Instant potatoes (or dehydrated potatoes) are made from real potatoes with the water removed. They deliver all the flavor, versatility and nutrition of a real, fresh potato because that’s what they are—minus the water.

FACTS

• Instant potatoes in the U.S. are typically made from russet, red and yellow potatoes that are dehydrated in a process that retains the texture and flavor of fresh potatoes once water is added back.
• Most instant potato products can be served immediately after adding water, though some need to be cooked after rehydration.
• Dehydrated potato products, including potato dices, slices, shreds, flakes, granules and flour, are used in restaurants, delis, coffee shops, bakeries, snack manufacturing and homes all over the world.
• Because they’re made from fresh potatoes, instant potatoes deliver the same nutrients, such as potassium, vitamin C and fiber.
  • One serving (100 grams) of mashed potatoes made from instant potato flakes contains 113 calories, 15 grams of carbohydrates to give us energy, over 2 grams of fiber to help us feel full, 11% of the vitamin C we need every day,  and 5% of our daily potassium.¹

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REFERENCES

1. FoodData Central, USDA, “Potatoes, mashed, dehydrated, prepared from flakes without milk, whole milk and margarine added,” https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/169372/nutrients. Accessed October 24, 2024.