Although they are often associated with Ireland, potatoes are native to the Andes Mountains and were first cultivated by Peruvian Indians at least 4,000 years ago. Spanish explorers introduced potatoes to Europe in the 1500s, where they became a staple food source for the poor. Potatoes are now cultivated worldwide; in fact, they are the world’s largest and most economically important vegetable crop.

For most North Americans, potatoes are a major component of the diet – usually in processed form that are high in fat and salt. However, on their own, potatoes are surprisingly nutritious and low in calories. A medium-size baked or boiled potato has between 120 and 150 calories, a small amount of protein, and almost no fat. The same potato turned into potato chips has 450 to 500 calories and up to 35 g of fat; 4 oz (113 g) of french fries contain about 300 calories and 15 to 20 g of fat. When eaten with the skin, they are high in complex carbohydrates and fiber and also provide vitamins B6, and C, and magnesium