The potato processing industry seems to have spread out the summer break a bit more this time than last season. In July, the processing figures were above last year. Last month, fewer potatoes were processed than a year earlier. Compared to the five-year average, the industry was operating at a normal pace in August.
In August, the Dutch industry processed 281.800 tons of potatoes, according to figures from the Association for the Potato Processing Industry (Vavi). Last August, that was 296.300 tons. The five-year average for this month is 283.040 tons. 53,7% or 151.200 tons of the processed potatoes came from abroad. Last year, that was 134.800 tons.
High efficiency
The processing yield is high at 56,8%. Last August it was 55,8% and the five-year average is 54,8%. It is possible that the relatively high underwater weight this season helps the efficiency of the processors. In total, 142.200 tons of pre-fried chips and 17.800 tons of other frozen potato products were made in August.