National Potato Day takes place today, Friday, October 6.
IFA (Irish Farmers’ Association) President Joe Healy has called on consumers and retailers to support the Irish potato sector.
“It is a very important indigenous industry worth €85 million at farm-gate level, with 500 growers planting almost 9,000ha annually,” he said.
IFA Potato Committee Chairman Eddie Doyle insisted: “Retailers recognise and respect the massive investments potato growers have made in machinery and cold storage, to ensure a continuous 12-month supply of Irish product.
Potatoes must be sold as a premium product and not used in any retail practices that undermine the primary producer.
The chairman urged consumers to choose Irish potatoes ahead of other imported produce – in addition to making a healthy food choice they would also be supporting vital jobs in the rural economy, he said.
Doyle also asked that the hotel and catering sectors ensure that their suppliers are sourcing Irish produce.
National Potato Day is part of a €1 million, three-year promotion campaign organised by Bord Bia designed to signal the health benefits of the humble spud.
National Potato Day Ambassador, dietitian Aoife Hearne, will highlight how carbohydrates are an essential source of energy for body and brain functions.
She advocates potatoes as a natural, unprocessed food which offers a top-quality, fat-free and gluten-free carbohydrate option.
Promotional events will run around the country today, including farm visits and supermarket tastings, organised by IFA members.