Sweet Potatoes vs. Yams: The Real Truth from The Produce Pair

The Produce Pair — Dan the Produce Man and Guido the Gardener — are back with a fresh look at California sweet potatoes.

You’ve seen them labeled as yams, sweet potatoes, garnets, jewels, Hannahs… but what’s the real story?
Here’s the truth: they’re all sweet potatoes, and none of them are true yams.

In this episode, recorded at Dan’s old market in Alameda, California, we break down:

Why stores still use the word yam

The most common California commercial varieties

How they differ in flavor, texture, and cooking uses

A couple of newer varieties you might start seeing in the produce aisle

How to pick the best sweet potatoes at the store

If you love produce, want to shop smarter, or just like hearing two old produce guys talk tubers — this one’s for you.
Watch, learn, and enjoy. It’s always best when you get it fresh!