The potato stocks in the United States (US) are considerably smaller than last year. This is partly due to the fact that the processing industry has taken a larger hold of the stock in recent months.
The potato stock in the 11 largest states was estimated at 1 million tonnes (9,03 million cwt) on the reference date of February 199. That is 4,7% less than exactly a year ago, or a shrinkage of approximately 445.000 tons of potatoes. It is the potatoes intended for processing that shrank the most in stock.
Pressure on stocks
Last December, potato stocks also shrank reported. What plays a role is a moderate growing season, which meant that the crop yield in the US last season was more than 2,5% lower than the previous year. At the same time, potato processors in both the US and Canada have invested in more capacity. The factories do everything they can to keep their stocks up to date.
Analysts estimate that the industry processed 1,8 million tons of potatoes in December and January. That is an increase of 5,9% compared to the same period a year ago. The global demand for potato products remains high, and therefore also in the US. Supply problems may become a limiting factor.
Fewer table potatoes and chips
It may also explain the fact that fewer table potatoes were shipped. This amounts to approximately 627.000 tons in December and January, which is 6,8% less than the year before. The use of potato chips fell by 13,2% to 284.000 tons. There are rumors that chip factories will reduce their contract volumes in 2020.