02/13/06 Extension program tackles retail problems

University extension programs typically are known for field research but that is just one component to their vast offerings. At the University of Idaho Extension they are delving into the arena of merchandising. In a study to aid the Idaho Potato Commission, U of I researchers are looking at the effects of retailing lighting on potatoes and have found lighting can have a vital impact on potato sales. Lighting is often an overlooked marketing component but as supermarkets are becoming more up- scale, they are incorporating a variety of accent lighting some of which increased the rate that potatoes turn green on supermarket shelves. U of I extension reported fiber optic lighting presented potatoes in their best light, one that not only enhanced consumer eye appeal but kept the tubers from turning green. Not all retail outlets can afford to custom light potatoes but the U of I extension group provided helpful solutions to retain color by rotating potatoes or shading them . I for one am always pleasantly surprised at the variety of ways university extension services work to improve upon the norm. I'm Susan Allen and this is Food Forethought. Source: www.progressivegrocer.com