The processing figures for September are not something to write home about. Processors processed less than 300.000 tons of potatoes into fries. That is a bit disappointing in a month with usually ample supply of potatoes from the field.
Last month, 296.900 tons of potatoes were processed into pre-fried chips or other frozen potato products, according to figures from the Association for the Potato Processing Industry (Vavi). By comparison, 334.200 tons were processed in September last year and the five-year average is 324.540 tons. Last month, the processing figure was the lowest since 2011. The total processed this season up to and including September is 578.700 tons, the lowest level since 2010.
In total, 132.100 tons of pre-fried chips were produced and 22.800 tons of other products. The processing yield is therefore 52,2%. That is also a bit on the low side for the time of year. The average yield over the past five years is 53,0%.