The first new potatoes suitable for fries have been harvested. Yet, there’s little reason for enthusiasm. The price farmers can currently sell their early potatoes for is at a historic low: around 10 euros per 100 kilos.
Potatoes are one of the most important food products in Lithuania, but potato growers still face challenges that threaten their yield and quality. Experts warn of quarantine diseases, particularly ring rot.
A lot has changed on the potato front in recent times. Partly due to the climate, but also due to trade, as goods move freely in Europe. Thirdly, consumer habits, as processed potatoes are making inroads.
Especially on unirrigated plots, potatoes of the early French fry variety Amora are ripening quickly. Ripening in Belgium is estimated at 70 percent. The yield gap between irrigated and unirrigated fields is unprecedented this year.
O pico da colheita de inverno ocorreria entre agosto e setembro.
Omar Carrasco, president of the Argentine Fruit and Vegetable Union (UFHA), noted that the impact was mitigated by a drastic drop in sales, which is keeping prices at bay despite the reduced supply.
Researchers at the International Potato Center (CIP) have promoted sustainable alternatives based on the use of mulching combined with minimum tillage practices for potato cultivation.
Border controls with Ecuador are tightened due to the potato and rice crisis.
