What's the Difference Between Red and Brown Potatoes?

The main difference between red and white potatoes is that red potatoes are the light red color-skinned potatoes that are less starchy and more sugary whereas white potatoes are the brown color-skinned potatoes that are starchy. Also, red potatoes are medium in size and they are better in salads, chowders, and soups.

Are red potatoes better than brown potatoes?

Waxy in texture, red potatoes stay firm when cooked and have a thinner (and red) skin than other potatoes, per Potatoes USA. The more color a potato has, the higher its total antioxidants, per UMaine. That means red potatoes are healthier than russets in terms of antioxidant content.

What are red potatoes good for?

Red potatoes are particularly healthy because of the thin, nutrient filled skins, which are loaded with fiber, B vitamins, iron and potassium. Half of the fiber of a potato comes from the skin. On red potatoes in particular, the skin is already super thin, so it doesn't detract from the taste or texture.

Sarah Jenkins

Sarah Jenkins

Senior Technology Editor & AI Specialist

Sarah Jenkins is a veteran tech journalist with over 12 years of experience covering artificial intelligence, mobile innovations, and digital ethics. Her insights have appeared in leading technology publications worldwide.