Tater tots were invented in 1953 by the Ore-Ida company in Oregon, as a way to use up leftover potato scraps.
The name "tater tots" is a trademark of Ore-Ida, but the term has become a genericized trademark and is used to refer to similar products made by other companies
Tater tots are made by shredding and pressing potatoes into small cylindrical shapes, which are then fried until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside
Tater tots are a popular snack food in the United States, often served as a side dish or appetizer at restaurants and fast food chains
Tater tots can be used in a variety of recipes, from casseroles to breakfast dishes, and are a versatile ingredient in many types of cuisine
In 2019, the town of Napoleon, Ohio declared itself the "tater tot capital of the world" and hosts an annual Tater Tots Festival