Frequently Asked Questions

What is the shelf life of Idahoan products?

All Idahoan products have a guaranteed shelf life of one year from the manufacturing code when stored in a cool, dry area – away from strong, contaminating odors.

Is it still safe to use product after a year from the manufacturing code?

Yes, the products are still safe to consume as long as the packaging is intact and the integrity of the packaging has not been damaged. After a year from the manufacturing code, some consumers may detect changes in product flavor, volume or texture.

What exactly is a manufacturing code, and how do I read it?

The manufacturing code represents the date the product was made. The first four digits indicate the date the product was made. The remaining digits, after the first four, are for internal purposes only.

The first number represents the year it was made. For instance, a 5 would indicate the product was made in 2005.

The next three numbers represent the day of the year the product was made. For example, if the numbers were 365, this would indicate the product was made on December 31st (the 365th day in the year).

How long should I bake Idahoan Au Gratin and Scalloped potato casseroles at different oven temperatures?

In conventional oven:

  • at 325 degrees, bake 45 - 50 min. or until tender
  • at 350 degrees, bake 40 - 45 min. or until tender
  • at 375 degrees, bake 35 - 40 min. or until tender
  • at 400 degrees, bake 30 - 35 min. or until tender
  • at 450 degrees, bake 20 min. or until tender

NOTE: If a more golden brown color is desired, bake 5 additional minutes. Double batch: Bake at 400 degrees 35 - 40 min. or until tender.

Do you have a list of all your products along with allergens they contain?

Yes. See our complete Idahoan allergens list.

Can I substitute Idahoan instant mashed potatoes in recipes calling for “Fresh” potatoes?

Yes, you can easily use instant potatoes in a recipe that calls for fresh potatoes. One cup of prepared Idahoan Mashed Potatoes = one medium fresh potato. Five pounds of fresh potatoes = approximately 1 pound of dry Idahoan flakes (or approximately 10 medium fresh potatoes).

What are the benefits of using dehydrated potatoes?

The main reason any food product is packaged is preservation of the product. Packaging allows us as consumers to enjoy wholesome, high quality, safe foods that are storable.

By dehydrating the potato and packaging them, consumers are able to enjoy potato products year round, and in areas where they are not grown or readily accessible. All of Idahoan potato products are simple to prepare. No cleaning, peeling, slicing or mashing is required.

Idahoan uses only 100% Idaho potatoes combined with excellent processing and packaging equipment and capabilities. This allows Idahoan to produce consistent, high quality products. Idahoan adheres to all USDA and FDA guidelines concerning production and ingredients.

A potato is a living, breathing organism, even after harvesting. After harvesting, the potato slowly begins to degrade. By processing and packaging the potatoes, Idahoan is able to virtually stop the degradation process and supply consumers with a healthy, sound product. There are heat labile vitamins that are partially destroyed during processing but raw potatoes also lose some of their nutrients as they age.