JR Simplot

(Newser) - Two potato varieties genetically engineered to withstand the bacteria that caused the Irish potato famine could soon be heading to dinner tables. The Department of Agriculture has approved planting of JR Simplot's Ranger Russet and Atlantic varieties of Innate potatoes, reports the AP . The potatoes—which have only potato...

(Newser) - It's the end of an era for Boise, Idaho. The hilltop mansion that once belonged to potato billionaire JR Simplot will soon be gone, the Idaho Statesman reports. Demolition started Sunday and should be wrapped up in 10 days. But the 30-foot-by-50-foot US flag flying some 200 feet above...

(Newser) - A major Idaho potato producer has won some love from the FDA for its genetically modified spud, but don't look for the "Innate" potato in the deep fryers at McDonald's anytime soon. As the Idaho Statesman reports, the fast-food giant—a longtime major buyer of Boise-based JR...