Potatoes and tomatoes dominate American vegetable consumption, according to the USDA Economic Research Service.
In 2019, the average American ate roughly 50 pounds of potatoes and 31 pounds of tomatoes. Unsurprisingly, French fries and pizza sauce made up a large part of our annual food intake.
Tomatoes may top the USDA's annual vegetable consumption list. Potatoes may be reclassified by the agency as grains, rice, and other carbohydrates instead of starchy vegetables.
Trade organizations like the National Potato Council and The Grain Chain support the proposed new classification, but they disagree on whether potatoes should be classified as a vegetable.
In testimony before the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, National Potato Council CEO Kam Quarles recommended them to leave potatoes where they are.
The Grain Chain opposed the committee's listing of potatoes because it "could further exacerbate nutrient shortfalls." Both sides agree to grow potatoes.
We'll know the winner when the United States Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee releases its 2025 guidelines. Keep eating vegetables. Additionally, potatoes.