Among the rainbow of fresh produce items decorating tables and plates this time of year, sweet potatoes are some of the most vibrant. Consumers all have their favorite variety, offering a wide range of eating experiences from sweet to savory. We know retailers and foodservice operators are putting these gems front and center, and a few variety differentiators might come in handy...
Varieties: Covington, Bellevue, Evangeline, Beauregard
Flavor: Moist, sweet, and earthy
Shape: Short and blocky to elongated
Eatability: Smooth and fibrous
Color: Burnt-orange to tan skin; orange flesh
Varieties: Vermillion, Diane
Flavor: Very sweet and extra moist
Shape: Elongated
Eatability: Smooth
Color: Red-copper to plum skin; orange flesh
Varieties: Murasaki/Japanese
Flavor: Mildly sweet, drier-tasting, full nutty flavor, with vanilla aroma
Shape: Short and blocky
Eatability: Smooth, dry, firm, and dense
Color: Dark purple skin; white flesh
Varieties: O’Henry, Bonita
Flavor: Mild, sweet, drier-tasting, with nutty and earthy flavor
Shape: Longer and thinner
Eatability: Smooth and dry with medium firmness; low in visual and residual fiber
Color: Yellow skin; white to yellow flesh
Source | Information provided by AndNowUKnow and The Snack sweet potato grower contributors