Potatoes are holding their own against exotic recent arrivals, according to research.
An independent consumer survey, conducted by The Nielsen Co, found that 93% of Kiwis cook potatoes at least once a week and the average household spend on both fresh and frozen potato products is $85.50 a year, more than three times that of alternatives such as rice or pasta.
The research found consumers chose potatoes because they are versatile, healthy and easy to cook - 85% also noting potatoes' nutritional value.
The study found Kiwis tend to stick with traditional methods of cooking potatoes.
Only one third of those asked try new recipes more than once or twice a year and a quarter felt they lacked new recipe ideas.
Potatoes New Zealand education consultant Glenda Gourley says the potato is the most versatile vegetable but different potatoes are suited to different cooking methods.
"Potatoes can be eaten in hundreds of ways, but the research shows that most people still opt for the mashed, roasted or boiled options. There are so many delicious and varied recipes available, I really urge people to try different ways of cooking potatoes and involve the kids as well, as cooking is a great way to have fun as a family."
All potatoes sold in New Zealand are also grown here, according to the organisation, which also claims that potatoes are environmentally friendly, with 1kg of potatoes taking 75 litres of water to grow, compared to 3000 litres for 1kg of rice or 500 litres for 1kg of wheat.
