The Novel Focus of the European Processing Spuds Buyers

Throughout Europe, spud buyers for major processing plants are now focusing on contracts, and demand for free buy has “dried up”, except for some excess to contract. According to reports, the new crop is yielding well and is “a week ahead” of last year.

Following the fallout from Brexit, the area of seed production in Scotland has decreased this year (10,219 ha vs 10,461 ha). Early maturing potato varieties have performed well in the United Kingdom, and many maincrops appear to be doing well, but quality issues are beginning to emerge.

“All areas apart from the North West are becoming dry and irrigation over the past four weeks has been hindered by strong winds. Common Scab is being noted in crops down the eastern side of the country,” the latest IFA report also shows.

In Ireland, for both retail and processing markets, home consumption remains similar to levels before the pandemic in 2019. The same trend is currently being observed in other fresh produce items. This week's lifts continue, with more volumes now available. Again, eating quality is said to be excellent, and yields are said to be above average. Maincrop material in stores is putting pressure on growers who are carrying the burden of increased energy costs.