Potato Sales Strong in Run Up to Christmas

Potato sales are reported to be very strong with good movement in all outlets. Many growers report increased buying interest from merchants as they stock up on product for the Christmas period.

Despite the tough ground conditions, there were some further attempts to harvest the potatoes still in the ground this week.

The industry in general maybe underestimating the level of crop waste this year. It will certainly be well in excess of previous years and growers will only realise the true extent of it when they begin to grade boxes.

It would appear that most of the peeling sector is now using Irish material. All players in the food service industry should be supporting our indigenous industry by sourcing local produce. In Europe the market situation has eventually stabilised with the European futures position trading above contract lows for the first time early this week.

Ex-Farm Potato Prices reported to IFA