If we look at the prices for free potatoes, we are presented with a completely different picture than the processing figures show. Prices have dropped to the lowest point in years, while production is rising to a record high. Of course, it is also possible that one thing leads to the other.
In April, 367.300 tons of potatoes passed through Dutch factories, according to figures from the Association for the Potato Processing Industry (Vavi). Not since October 2018 have so many potatoes been processed in a month. The fact that the peak in production falls so relatively late in the season is also remarkable in a sense. Usually in October, when the harvest is in full swing, the factories are running at full speed. Incidentally, 38,2% or 140.400 tons of potatoes processed last month came from abroad.
In April, 171.600 tons of pre-fried chips were made and 27.900 tons of other products. The five-year average for chips production this month is 153.100 tons. April this year is almost 20.000 tons above that. The processing yield is 54,3%, which is good for this time of year.