Although the global market for frozen processed potato products is dominated by French fries (or chips as they are called in certain parts of the world), the category also encompasses hash browns and potato croquettes. 

by Jonathan Thomas

Both are enjoyed widely throughout the world and are served and eaten during a widening range of eating occasions. In terms of their description and history:

• Hash browns – these have a rather obscure origin, although they are generally recognized as being invented in the US during the nineteenth century. They are made from diced potatoes, mixed with shortening and chopped onions, before being fried to form a browned potato cake. Hash browns come in a range of shapes and styles and can be purchased in frozen format, for in-home or out-of-home consumption. They are frequently viewed as a breakfast option. 

• Potato croquettes – these also date back to the nineteenth century and have traditionally been linked with chefs in France. The word croquette comes from the French ‘croquer’, which translates as to crunch or bite. They are made from mashed potato, which is coated in breadcrumbs and fried. They have traditionally been regarded as more versatile than hash browns – eating occasions range from meal accompaniments to appetizers, suitable for all times of the day. 

Over the coming years, global demand for hash browns and potato croquettes is expected to benefit from the further expansion of the market for frozen potato products. According to Future Market Insights (FMI), this market was valued at USD58.5bn in 2022, with annual growth expected to average almost 6% for the period leading up to 2032. Much of this is projected expansion is likely to result from greater urbanization of the population in countries such as China and India, together with the accompanying increase in demand for processed and convenience foods as income levels rise. The ongoing expansion of the quick service restaurants (QSRs) sector in these parts of the world – driven by the activity of suppliers such as McDonalds, KFC and Burger King – should also assist the global market. 

At present, the market’s largest sector by some distance is French fries, which accounts for over 40% of global sales. However, the fact that more adventurous consumers in many parts of the world are now inclined to seek out alternatives to traditional French fries and chips augurs well for products such as potato croquettes and hash browns. Much of the consumer appeal of these products stems from their convenient cooking and preparation nature, as well as their texture and taste, i.e. the combination of a crisp outer coating and a soft interior made from potatoes. Additionally, efforts to improve the health profile of these products remain ongoing – for example, levels of saturated fat have been lowered by switching from beef tallow to vegetable oils during the frying process. 

You can read the rest of this article in your complimentary May-June copy of Potato Processing International magazine, which you can access by clicking here.