27 October 2025
Potato
The potato used to be brought to Europe from South America by Spanish explorers and others. Monks took care of spreading the potato from Spain to the other European countries. The Incas then cultivated this plant for hundreds of years. DNA research has shown that all potatoes are descended from one plant from Peru. Nowadays, different varieties of potatoes are grown for a variety of purposes. As many as 250 (!) varieties are grown in the Netherlands. Think of it, for example, for consumption or the production of starch. The average Dutchman eats 80 to 140 kilos of potatoes a year!
Vitamins and minerals in the potato
The potato is a well-known food for us. But is a potato good to eat? For example, what substances does it contain? Potatoes contain carbohydrates, mainly in the form of starch and provide a lot of fiber, especially in the skin. They contain vitamin C and vitamin B6. In addition, potatoes contain a lot of potassium. And finally, there are phytonutrients (plant substances) in potatoes.The health benefits
The potato is delicious in many dishes. Important to know is what does it actually do for our bodies? We list it for you.- Carbohydrates, in the form of starch, give the body energy.
- One serving of potatoes (200g) already provides you with 4 grams of fiber, making potatoes a nice contribution to your daily fiber intake.
- Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant in our body and contributes to the formation of connective tissue, increases the absorption of iron and, in part, ensures a good resistance.
- Vitamin B6 helps regulate the activity of certain hormones and is important for the production of blood cells and supports the proper functioning of the immune and nervous systems.
- Potassium is good for blood pressure and contributes to normal muscle and nerve function.
