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Dissertations, Theses and Plan B Papers -- Abstract

Hinman, Donald Lee. Economics and Market Feasibility of Packaging Michigan Potatoes in Institutional Size Retort Pouches. Master's Thesis, 1990. Major Professor: Pierson. 

Packaging potatoes in institutional size retort pouches is analyzed as a possible market outlet for Michigan potatoes. A two-pronged research approach involves estimation of unit costs of retort pouch potato products (RPP) and an assessment of the market potential for RPP in the food service industry. Break-even costs for a six-pound pouch is estimated to be $2.62 (.44 per pound), which translates to a likely price disadvantage relative to competing products. Food service operators expressed general satisfaction with existing potato products and will not readily switch to use of retort pouch potato products.