Belgium and France are Leading the Potato Race in Europe
Both Belgium and France are reporting good outputs in Europe, with potato yields 10.2% higher than the previous year.
The Netherlands’ yields are “less than in Belgium,” and there are quality problems such as blight, pink rot, and mishaps. A “breakdown” has already resulted in the unloading of several stores in Germany.
“Heavy rainfall has prevented any liftings in the U.K. also over the past number of days. Later planted, late maturing varieties such as Markies are still being left to mature and skin set, and in the Fens in the East clearance is still only around 70%,” the latest IFA report reveals.
The Irish domestic potato consumption and retail sales continue to prosper with the current weather conditions increasing demand.
“The food service sector should see a boost also as we approach the bank holiday weekend. Any harvesting that was taking place has been completely halted due to weather conditions. Widespread flooding has resulted in waterlogged fields and losses are most likely to occur,” the IFA’s potato experts concluded.
