This year marks the earliest start ever of the New Nugget potato harvest,” says Brian Faulkner with BC Fresh. “Harvest of this special potato variety signifies the start of the local open-field produce season as New Nuggets come prior to strawberries and basically anything else local,” said Faulkner.
Early season variety
“We are one of the only companies to commercially grow this potato variety called Warba. It’s a white variety that’s only available at the start of the season,” mentioned Faulkner. This year, harvest started mid-May, but traditionally it starts in early June and the season runs through early August. “The early start of the produce season has been very beneficial to all growers in British Columbia. Everything is a few weeks ahead due to the great weather, which gives growers more days in the field and should result in good yields, added Faulkner.”
No skin
Warba’s are harvested immature, before their skins have developed. “We harvest them at the crack of dawn and after harvest, they are washed, packed and shipped out to the retailer the same day,” said Faulkner. BC Fresh recently launched a new pouch bag for retail, but Warba’s are also available in bulk cartons.
Warba’s only require a quick preparation. They don’t need to be peeled and can just be rinsed in cold water. They taste great steamed, gently boiled or sautéed, but are also a very nice ingredient in a warm salad. “I find them most delicious when grilled on the barbecue,” finished Faulkner.
About BC Fresh
BC Fresh is fully owned by 24 family farms that are all located in British Columbia. BC Fresh is the sole marketer of all products from these family farms, including potatoes, carrots, beets, turnips, onions, squash and many other vegetables.
For more information:
Brian Faulkner
BC Fresh
Tel: (+1) 604-946-3139