Although it is still unclear how many potatoes are not harvested in the United Kingdom, it is now clear that the price for potatoes is rising rapidly. The price has already risen towards €20 per tonne.
According to market agency AHDB Potato, almost 90% of the potatoes were harvested by mid-November. However, if only the chip potatoes are considered, then at least 20% must still be in the ground. In fact, it's already about 2% to 3% gave up. The opinions of insiders and the estimates of the official figures differ, which has created some confusion about the actual situation in the country. However, this uncertainty does not exist when it comes to pricing. It is certain that the price across the Channel will rise considerably.
Price of free potatoes is rising
The most recent figures from AHDB Potato show that the price of free potatoes increased by €16,64 per tonne last week. This brings the price to €17,40 per 100 kilos. AHDB writes that this price increase is partly due to the fact that there is little good quality available. The institute also reports that there is more trade in lower quality products due to storage problems.
Several local growers also report that potatoes of the Agria variety in England (for the lower quality) can now be converted to €23. The good quality potatoes would currently have even been sold for the equivalent of €28 per 100 kilos, bagged and sorted.
| Average price - November 20, 2019 | Week until November 16 | Verschil |
| Average price per week (£ per tonne) | £157,66 | + £ 5,03 |
| Average price 'free-buy price' (£ per tonne) | £148,67 | + £ 14,23 |