Market short on quality widens potato price

By FWi staff

PRICE variations on the potato market are growing with traders reporting a shortage of quality stocks.

In contrast, lower-grade stock is appearing from everywhere. “Skin blemishes of all kinds, slug damage and bruising are higher than for many years,” noted the British Potato Council in its weekly price report.

Increased production in 1999 means that total supplies are likely to be more than adequate this winter, noted the BPC.

“However, within the overall picture quality stocks, due to the highest wastage levels for years, will again be tight right to the end.”

Grade 1 bulk material is ranging between £55-£75/t, with some best samples at £80-£100/t. Top Edward are at £100-£120/t and Piper between £90/t and £115/t.

Grade 2 material is trading between £30-£50/t, although poorer samples are selling as little as £20/t.

The increasing volume of average, value and poorer stocks coming to market is tipping the balance of overall prices, said the BPC.

Better quality continues to demand a premium, while poor samples are more difficult to sell.

The BPC weekly GB ex-farm average price dropped £4.24/t to £62.16/t, reflecting the lower end of the market. This compares with £164.45/t in 1998.