Last-minute amendments could limit potatoes in schools and ultimately hurt growers

As House lawmakers work to prepare for the next year’s spending, the National Potato Council is warning of some last-minute amendments they say would affect the industry.

One would mandate that potatoes can only be served at breakfast in schools after other vegetables are served first. Representative Josh Gottheimer of New Jersey says this goes back on a bi-partisan provision in the Ag Appropriations bill.

He warns it would increase costs for schools, bring a decrease in menu flexibility, and increase food waste. Lawmakers will continue their debate once they return from August recess.