Breakfast is where it’s at, and its popularity is here to stay.  At foodservice, breakfast items are in demand all day long as consumers enjoy a hash brown for an afternoon snack or a breakfast taco for dinner.  Manufacturers are cranking out new innovations in the category that check the boxes for convenience, freshness and craveability.

Take a stroll through the fresh and frozen aisles to discover a variety of new, on-trend breakfast options.  Fresh, value-added shredded potatoes mixed with diced onions and peppers in the produce aisle are perfect for a quick and easy hash.  In the egg case, pre-made breakfast bowls offer a convenient meal incorporating whole ingredients including potatoes, veggies and eggs.  And in the frozen section, choose from a variety of breakfast burritos, sandwiches and bowls to accommodate virtually every dietary concern.

This booming daypart is defined by a few quintessential ingredients, including potatoes and eggs, which are versatile and valuable.  With these ingredients as a base, breakfast concepts can expand into other growing food trends from ethnic-inspired concepts and savory spins on sweet items to natural ingredients.  The potato industry is steeped in breakfast innovation, offering food manufacturers a variety of fresh, frozen and dehydrated products to work with any concept. 

So, what’s next?  Potatoes are ripe for breakfast innovation.  A few concepts to inspire manufacturers’ corporate chefs and R&D professionals:

Potato Waffles: A savory spin on a classically sweet concept, Potato Waffles are already making their way into the freezer case.  In no time, we will see shelf-stable potato waffle and pancake dry mixes in the baking aisle. Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, potato waffles are scrumptious and can be customized with a variety of savory or sweet toppings.  

Quiche Bites: Bite-sized quiche is coated in dehydrated potato flake breading and deep fried to golden perfection.  A modern twist on a classic, quiche bites are an ideal frozen concept that work with endless flavor combinations, from diced potato, bacon and cheddar to a veg-centric version. 

Potato Energy Breakfast Bar: A functional food that starts the day off right, potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and contain more potassium than a banana.  These energy bars loaded with potato, oats, eggs and cheese make a great on-the-go breakfast or post-workout recovery food anytime of the day. 

Denver Omelet Brunch Bowl: A healthy, kid-friendly breakfast bowl packed with flavor and satisfaction. Great for breakfast, lunch or dinner!

For more Potato breakfast inspiration, visit PotatoGoodness.com/ingredient.

Jill Rittenberg is global marketing manager for Potatoes USA. Readers may contact her at Jill@potatoesusa.com.