20 Spuds a Day Diet Supports the Potato

MOSES LAKE, Wash. In an effort to remind the public about the nutritional value of potatoes, the Washington State Potato Commissions Executive Director Chris Voigt began a 60-day diet on Oct. 1 consisting of only potatoes and potato products.

The 62", 195-pound Voigt began his 20 Potatoes a Day Diet" to prove he can remain healthy while eating nothing but the tasty tubers, which are rich in protein, potassium, fiber, vitamin C and other nutrients.

To maintain his body weight, he calculated that he needs the equivalent of 20 averaged-sized potatoes a day, baked, boiled, pan fried and steamed, as well as french fries and plain mashed potatoes made from dehydrated flakes. The diet allows oil for cooking, as well as ketchup, hot sauce, herbs and spices, but no sour cream, butter, chili, cheese, gravy or any other condiment.

Voigt set up a website, 20potatoesaday.com, which contains facts about potato nutrition, a frequently updated blog and videos of him grocery shopping and surfing in a potato mascot suit, as well as a link to the Facebook page.

Voigt is quick to correct misconceptions or answer queries about the nutritional value of potatoes, and claims the inspiration for the potato diet  was the governments deletion of the vegetable from the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program.