According to the British Potato Council "Pick up a potato and you are holding an amazingly nutrient dense food". Plain potatoes are low in fat, they provide vitamins and minerals and contain no cholesterol; if they are consumed with their skin on they are also a great source of fibre. Potatoes belong to the group of starchy carbohydrates together with pasta, bread and rice and carbohydrates are known for being an essential fuel for our metabolism. Independent nutritionist and dietary researchers recommend potatoes as the perfect base for a balanced diet as they make an excellent basis for a balanced diet.

This food group is a rich source of Vitamin C which helps to repair tissues and helps the body to fight stress and infection.A 175g portion of potatoes will provide 26% of your recommended daily allowance (RDA). A 175g portion of boiled new potatoes in their skins provide 22% of your RDA for potassium, which is known to lower blood pressure as part of a healthy low salt diet. (source www Potatoes are rich in Folate which is one of the B Vitamins and regarded as an essential nutrient in the manufacture of red blood cells and DNA. Folate is particularly significant during growth spurts and pregnancy.A 175g portion of boiled new potatoes in their skins provide 9% of your RDA for Folate. Potatoes are renowned as a rich source of fibre which can promote good digestion and help to manage your bodyweight. Fibre will help to prevent constipation and keep our bowels healthy whilst lowering blood cholesterol and helping to reduce the risk of heart disease. More information can be found on British Potato Council website.