Old Crop Potatoes are Becoming Scarce Across Europe

Old crop potato stockpiles are becoming increasingly scarce across Europe, and greater ex-farm prices were once more reported last week, especially in Germany where values had been lagging a little.

Prices have increased mostly due to peelers producing chilled fries for immediate consumption.

“In the U.K. rainfall levels are highly variable. Irrigated crops look ‘full of potential’ but quality issues such as common scab are more widespread than last year,” the recent IFA report reveals.

In Ireland, the retail potato demand and consumption remain stable, and unchanged in recent weeks.

“Yields of Queens continue to be reported average at best with a lot of regional variability and demand remains strong for early material. Recent rainfall has helped main-season crops; however, they are still very much behind schedule. A potato blight advisory is in effect, with recent weather conditions conducive to blight,” the IFA experts summed up.