Potato Growers Advised to Stick with Consumer's Choice

20 February, 2003

Potato growers have been advised by Teagasc to grow the maximum acreage of the varieties for which Irish consumers have a distinct preference.

The two most popular potato varieties in Ireland at present are Rooster, bred by Teagasc scientists at Oak Park, Carlow, and the old reliable Kerr's Pink.

According to Tom Maher, National Potato Specialist with Teagasc, Rooster accounted for around one-third of the 33,000 acres (13,200 hectares) of potatoes grown last year, with Kerr's Pink contributing a further 25%. Other 'floury' varieties, such as British Queens and Record, make up the bulk of the remainder.

"These varieties have high dry matter with a 'floury' texture, for which Irish consumers have consistently shown a distinct preference. This is in stark contrast to the 'soapy' varieties preferred by English and European consumers."

Addressing the Teagasc/IFA national potato conference, Tom Maher said Irish potato growers have an advantage in being able to grow varieties uniquely for the Irish consumer. He advised growers to maximise the acreage of these varieties, particularly Rooster and Kerr's Pink, in 2003.

Mr Maher said that some English 'soapy' varieties, such as Maris Piper, Estima and Saxon, are imported into Ireland for the 'peeling' on mashed potato trade.

"While Irish consumers have a clear preference for 'floury' potato varieties, many are not sure about what is 'floury' and 'soapy' on the supermarket shelf."

"There is a real need for the potato industry to conduct an educational and promotional campaign on the unique attributes of the Irish grown varieties." This would enable consumers to specify the varieties they want", he said.

Mr Maher said that because of lower yields than normal last autumn and losses due to very late harvesting the grower's price for potatoes is around €100/tonne higher than this time last year.

The full conference proceedings can be found at National Potato Conference