‘Russet prices could drive varieties demand’

HIGHER prices on Russet potatoes North Dakota in the US could increase demand for other varieties, according to a report in Fresh Plaza.

David Moquist of North Dakota supplier O C Schulz & Sons said: “Russet pricing is as high as it’s been for a long time and Russets are the largest part of the potato supply in the country, so if they’re short and high priced, that might push some people towards red and yellow potatoes which we grow. That should help create more demand for the coloured varieties.”

He said demand for Yellows is growing every year. Red and yellow potato demands have been steady since the start of shipping in late October after harvest, resulting in consistent pricing.

David said volumes improved this year because of more normal rain levels. “Our crop is back to normal which we haven’t seen in at least three years due to weather issues,” he said. “I think the demand is similar to last year, though last year we had a shorter crop so we finished up early. However, that was partly because also we had good demand,” he said, adding that in inflationary times, potatoes are still making for a good buy at retail. Supplies are available generally until around May 1st. 

The supplier recently updated it grading line by installing a lane sizer along with grading which has eliminated the need for hand graders. David said this had made a big impact on production.

Source: FreshPlaza   Photo: Mike Goad