49% of farmers see competition from other carbohydrates such as pasta and rice as one of the biggest challenges facing the potato industry.

These results came from a poll taken to gauge the feeling in the industry and see what challenges farmers are most concerned about going forward at the National Potato Conference on Tuesday, February 18, organised by the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA), Teagasc and Bórd Bia.

The results of the poll can be seen throughout the article below. It should be noted that attendees were allowed to pick more than one option when taking the poll.

Finding a solution to the competition from pasta and 52% of attendees thought that more education was needed about nutrition, basic cooking skills and the value of potatoes in schools.

More social media and TV and radio exposure were also thought to be needed to promote potatoes, while 30% of farmers thought testimonials on potatoes from celebrities may also play a part in promotion.

An underwhelming 4% of respondents thought that they can do more to promote the product themselves.

Adapting the ‘spud’

34% of participants in the poll thought that the industry needs to make potatoes easier and quicker to prepare, while 25% stated that more modern recipes are needed. 23% also thought that more varieties need to be grown apart from Roosters.

Decline in planted area

2019 saw approximately 8,000ha of potatoes planted in this country. That’s the second lowest area of potatoes planted since records began.

41% of participants in the poll attributed this decline to price pressure at grower level, while 37% stated there was a lack of market opportunities.