On May 30, 2025, the second International Day of Potato will be observed with the theme “Shaping history, feeding the future.” The day also marks the 80th anniversary of FAO, highlighting the potato’s changing place in the world’s agrifood systems and its benefits to livelihoods and food security, particularly for small-scale farmers.

The potato has impacted civilizations on several continents since it was domesticated in the Andes and spread worldwide during the Columbian Exchange. It helped ensure food security during international battles like World War II, the Qing Dynasty in China, the Inca Empire, and the Industrial Revolution in Europe. However, incidents like the Great Famine in Ireland also serve as a reminder of the risks associated with genetically homogeneous farming systems.

A Pillar of Sustainability and Food Security

Zero hunger, sustainable agriculture, and economic opportunity are among the major SDGs that the potato promotes. Potatoes are cultivated in 159 countries and come in more than 5,000 varieties. They are used by billions of people and are grown in various ways, from commercial farms throughout the world to smallholders in the Andes.

The FAO stresses the need to preserve potato varieties and bolster their value chains. Officials said the crop supports climate resilience, nutrition, and jobs. Women farmers and local communities receive special praise, particularly those in charge of projects like Peru’s 12,000-hectare Potato Park, which preserves native varieties and cultural knowledge.

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Innovation and Participation in 2025

FAO promotes worldwide involvement in the 2025 festivities through community events, education, and lobbying. FAO’s Plant Production and Protection Division Director Yurdi Yasmi called for public participation. Resources like communication toolkits and the Get Involved Guide may support outreach.

Potato starch is utilized in packaging and capsules, a gluten-free and eco-friendly substitute for plastics, and potatoes are also becoming increasingly popular as a bio-based innovation. These innovative uses will also be showcased at the International Day of Potato celebrations in 2025.

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