Supply chain delays, sourcing problems, and labor shortages were all noticeable problems during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021 – and these challenges continue to linger. In the foodservice industry specifically, restaurants continue to combat a lack of available labor and a scarcity of available drivers needed to source ingredients and supplies. According to the National Restaurant Association, 2022 employment levels of eating and drinking places were still 6.4% below their pre-pandemic employment levels¹. Additionally, 95% of restaurants have experienced shortages of crucial food items or significant supply delays, which is a result of the disrupted supply chains that operators have been facing over the past few years².

Fortunately for operators, there are ways to overcome these hurdles without sacrificing flavor or quality. By using shelf-stable, efficient ingredients like Idahoan® potatoes, operators can continue to satisfy their guests while working through staffing or supply constraints. Speed-scratch Idahoan potatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be applied across various formats; serve them as the base of bowls, within casserole dishes, as the foundations of soups, or even as an ingredient in best-selling desserts. Additionally, their Fresh-Dried™ format can save valuable time in the kitchen; they require no peeling, chopping, boiling, or mashing, and their speed-scratch prep transforms them into a perfect component for any dish in a matter of minutes. Idahoan Fresh-Dried® potatoes are an easy staple to keep stocked in your operation’s pantry, especially for the times when available labor may be lacking.

Additionally, Idahoan potatoes are available in compact, shelf-stable packaging, so the ingredients are there when you need them without taking up endless amounts of space in the refrigerator or freezer. Idahoan’s offerings range from having a shelf life of nine months (for Vitamin C containing products) to 18 months for plain slices. Thus, Idahoan potatoes offer a unique solution to tough situations, such as driver shortages that can make sourcing a continuous supply of fresh ingredients impossible.

Despite the fact that supply and labor issues continue to remain prevalent, guests expect the same great flavor and format each time they dine. Luckily, Idahoan potatoes offers scratch-like flavor and texture in a consistent, convenient format — so operators never have to worry about disappointing their customers due to circumstances out of their control. More than just a pantry staple, Idahoan potatoes are the back-of-house ingredient operators should be sure to stock up on.

^{1: National Restaurant Association “Restaurants Continue to Struggle Filling Job Openings” (2022)}

^{2: National Restaurant Association “Supply Chain” (2022)}

To learn more about how Idahoan® potatoes can serve as a canvas for culinary creativity in complicated times, visit www.idahoanfoodservice.com.