Sweet Potatoes vs. Yams Facts

The video addresses the common confusion between sweet potatoes and yams in the U.S. It clarifies that what are often labeled as yams in grocery stores are actually sweet potatoes. True yams are different, with a brown exterior and white interior, and are mostly found in West Africa. The mislabeling originated in the 1920s when Louisiana farmers marketed their sweet potatoes as yams to differentiate them. The term 'yam' likely comes from West African languages, brought to the U.S. through slavery, where it was used to describe the sweet potatoes found in the new world.

What is the main difference between a sweet potato and a yam?

• Sweet potatoes are only grown in West Africa.

• Yams are more commonly found in supermarkets.

• They are the same vegetable.

• Sweet potatoes are orange-fleshed, while yams are brown-covered and white inside.

Which of the following is true about sweet potatoes?

• They are only orange in color.

• They can be purple, white, or yellowish.

• They are not available in supermarkets.

• They are the same as yams.

Where are most yams grown?

• Asia

• South America

• West Africa

• United States

Why did Louisiana farmers start calling sweet potatoes 'yams'?

• To follow a new agricultural trend.

• Because they were the same as yams.

• To differentiate their moist orange sweet potatoes from other varieties.

• To confuse consumers.

When did the term 'yam' start being used for sweet potatoes in the United States?

• In the 2000s

• In the 1800s

• In the 1920s

• In the 1950s

What is the likely origin of the word 'yam'?

• It comes from a Latin word.

• It was a marketing term created in the 20th century.

• It was invented by American farmers.

• It is derived from West African languages.

How did the word 'yam' likely travel to the Southern U.S.?

• Through trade routes.

• Via European settlers.

• Through the history of slavery.

• By modern agricultural exchanges.