In France, it is suggested that if the current volumes continue, the potato processing sector could equal its 2018-2019 record at more than 1,3m tons used over 12 months, the Irish Farmers Association (IFA) latest report shows.

IFA’s experts added that across Europe, physical prices in the processing sector are firm and there have been some increased free buy prices paid over the last week.

In Ireland, retail demand remains similar to the rolling average for this time of the year.

“There is renewed demand for the processing sector as it appears that restaurants will be allowed to open beyond the current 8 pm time in the next two weeks. There is good demand for high-quality packing material at present,” IFA’s analysts mentioned. “Reports from growers indicate that quality issues are emerging around the country and saleable yields are significantly reduced as a result. Some growers are reported saleable yields similar to 2012 levels.”