USDA makes first purchase of dehydrated granules for a US global feeding program

On October 24, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the purchase of 240 metric tons of dehydrated potato granules and 320 metric tons of dehydrated potato flakes under the McGovern-Dole Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program.

The announcement marks a historic achievement for the domestic potato industry as it is the first time US dehydrated potato granules have been purchased for a US international food assistance program.

"For years, US potato growers have been working with USDA to recognize the significant nutritional and economic benefits of the potato in all its forms,"said Randy Hardy, the National Potato Council's Vice President of Trade Affairs.

"We are honored and humbled to learn that our crops will be helping the country meet its commitment to improving childhood education and nutrition throughout the world."

The McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program is a global school feeding program promoting education, child development, and food security for some of the world's poorest children.

The potato granules purchased under this program will be utilized in Cameroon by the private voluntary organization (PVO) Counterpart International as part of a three-year school feeding project.

The project will ultimately use 1,986 MT of dehydrated potatoes and will promote the growing of fresh potatoes by Cameroon's citizens to develop a more sustainable food source.