PA Preferred® Sterman Masser Potato Farms in Schuylkill County is a preeminent potato, corn, soy, wheat and grain supplier, both within Pennsylvania and nationwide. This eighth generation business uses cutting edge technology and takes a zero waste approach, utilizing 100% of its potatoes for a variety of purposes. Sterman Masser Potato Farms is part of the Masser Family of Companies, which offers a “one-stop spud shop” complete with growing, packing, shipping and processing services.
Julie Masser Ballay, Helen Masser, Keith Masser and Dave Maser
We spoke with Lela Reichart, Vice President of Marketing and New Business Development, who offered insight into how it all comes together, what it’s like to farm in Pennsylvania over hundreds of years and how people can enjoy the Sterman Masser products.
PA Eats: What do you appreciate about being PA Preferred?
Lela Reichart: Being PA Preferred is important to us because it strengthens our identity as a proud Pennsylvania grower, reinforcing the quality and locality of the products we provide to our retail partners. The designation denotes that our potatoes are genuinely Pennsylvania-grown, supporting our agricultural economy and reflecting our origin in farming. Being a member of the PA Preferred program brings further value to our participation in the PA Farm Show and other statewide events that highlight the same agricultural missions and stories that we cherish. We are proud to showcase the PA Preferred mark as a reflection of our commitment to Pennsylvania agriculture, local economies and farm fresh produce.
What are your most popular products?
Our most popular offerings are our Side Delights convenience-driven potato products, especially our petites and steamer bags, which give consumers the quality they expect without sacrificing ease and time. Our petite and steamer potatoes stand out for their quick cook time, beautiful colors, and naturally buttery taste. Customers love that they can “just pop them in the microwave.” Convenience, taste and quality, versatility and little-to-no-prep are what make Side Delights a potato favorite.
What makes Pennsylvania a special place to farm?
The Masser family has been farming in Pennsylvania since 1754. Our multi-generational, family-owned legacy is rooted in this land. Each generation has learned to work with Pennsylvania’s natural advantages – its climate, soil, and terrain – to produce potatoes known for their flavor, quality and reliability. Nestled in the scenic Pennsylvania Dutch Hegins and Lykens valleys, our farmland sits on rolling hills with rich red shale soil, a distinctive, well-drained soil structure that plays a major role in the exceptional taste and texture of the potatoes we grow. The state’s balanced seasons, cool nights and moderate rainfall support strong plant development and consistent quality throughout the growing cycle. Its central location also enables efficient distribution to major East Coast markets, keeping our fresh potatoes closer to consumers. The value of our history combined with the unique qualities of the natural land support us in being dedicated to Pennsylvania agriculture.
What sets Sterman Masser apart?
Masser Potato Farms stands out as a fully integrated grower, packer, shipper, and processor – a true one-stop potato supplier. Our unique structure allows us to manage every step of the process, from farm to fork, ensuring unmatched consistency, quality and reliability. As an eighth-generation family business, we pair deep agricultural heritage with a forward-thinking approach. Our dedicated team leads with innovation, continually expanding our offerings so customers receive the most delicious, highest-quality potatoes in the most convenient formats. Because we grow, store, pack, and deliver our potatoes year-round, our partners across retail, food service, wholesale, and processing can count on a steady supply of locally grown, responsibly handled product no matter the season. The combination of heritage, expertise, and control is what truly sets us apart.
CEO Dave Masser
Find Sterman Masser products at grocery stores & food retailers throughout the north Atlantic region. Follow Sterman Masser on Facebook and Instagram for recipes, product releases and to stay in the loop! The Masser Family of Companies is located at 1 Spud Lane, Sacramento; (570) 678-1846.
This series was created in collaboration with PA Preferred.
PA Preferred® is Pennsylvania’s statewide branding program that promotes locally grown and processed food and other agricultural products.
- Photos: Sterman Masser Potato Farms
