How many pounds of raw potatoes are needed to make mashed for 150 people?

It's impossible to give you an exact number of pounds of potatoes needed without more information. Here's why:

* Serving size: How much mashed potatoes are you planning to serve each person? A small side dish requires less than a large portion.

* Potato variety: Different potatoes have varying water content and yield different amounts of mashed potatoes.

* Desired consistency: Do you want thick, creamy mashed potatoes, or something lighter? This affects the amount of potato needed.

Here's how to calculate the amount you need:

1. Decide on serving size: Estimate how many ounces of mashed potatoes you'll serve per person.

2. Consider potato type: Use a potato type known for good mashing (like russet or Yukon Gold).

3. Account for shrinkage: Potatoes lose some weight when cooked. Figure on needing about 1.25 pounds of raw potatoes for every pound of cooked mashed potatoes.

Example:

* Serving size: 4 ounces per person

* Potato type: Russet potatoes

* Shrinkage: 1.25

* 150 people x 4 ounces per person = 600 ounces of mashed potatoes needed

* 600 ounces / 16 ounces per pound = 37.5 pounds of cooked mashed potatoes needed

* 37.5 pounds cooked / 1.25 = 47 pounds of raw potatoes needed

Always err on the side of having a little extra. It's better to have leftover mashed potatoes than to run out!