French fry ice cream was released by the Idaho Potato Commission and Van Leeuwen Ice Cream in February 2023 to mark Potato Lovers Month. Starting Sept. 1, 3,500 Walmart stores began carrying the product.

EAGLE, Idaho — The Idaho Potato Commission‘s unlikely venture into ice cream is gaining momentum, as 3,500 Walmart stores began carrying the french fry-flavored product Sept. 1.

The state produces about one-third of U.S. potatoes. The commission for years has conducted national branding, marketing and promotional campaigns.

The commission in February — dubbed Potato Lovers Month — partnered with the Van Leeuwen Ice Cream chain to create Idaho Potato Malted Milkshake and Fries.

Van Leeuwen launched the signature flavor that month at its Los Angeles and New York shops. The product also was also available online for a period.

Now the fry-infused ice cream, which the pastry team at Van Leeuwen created using Idaho potato flakes, is one of eight flavors the company will feature on Walmart shelves through Oct. 31.

“Based on how quickly the ice cream sold out in February, I’m not surprised Walmart selected Idaho Potato Malted Milkshake and Fries to be one of its featured fall flavors,” commission CEO Jamey Higham said in a release. “We’re thrilled because Walmart is already one of our biggest retail partners, and this means more folks around the country will be able to try it.

Pints sell for $4.98. Other Van Leeuwen flavors hitting Walmart shelves are Honey Cornbread With Strawberry Jam, Sweet Potato Casserole, Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll, Cranberry Crumble, Apple Pie, Purple Velvet and Sticky Toffee Pudding.

A nationwide survey early this year found malted ice cream and french fries to be a popular pairing. It edged out chicken and waffles, and biscuits and gravy, according to the commission.