Scottish Gemson potato has lower calories than rival
Nutritional experts from Queen Margaret University (QMU), found that the Gemson potato has a positive impact on the environment, produces less waste and can offer higher yields for the farmer in comparison to Maris Peer.
The potato variety has recently been introduced to the UK market by Montrose-based Grampian Growers, which holds the world-wide marketing rights. It is currently available for sale at major retailers in the UK and Ireland.
The potato industry in the UK is currently valued at £4.1 billion across all sectors. The Scottish potato industry can be split between seed and ware (consumption) production with a combined annual value of close to £100 million annually.
Dr Laura Wyness from the Scottish Centre for Food Development and Innovation at QMU, said: “When analysing the nutritional profile, our research showed that Gemson potatoes had a very similar nutritional content to its main competitor, Maris Peer, but was lower in calories."
Sandy McGowan, General Manager at Grampian Growers, who has driven the introduction of the new Gemson potato to Scotland and the rest of the UK and Ireland, has over 10 years’ experience in developing new varieties for market. He said “We had established that Gemson has a positive impact on the environment including higher yield and less wastage compared to competitor varieties."
McGowan said “The research has allowed us to establish the facts about the nutritional content and consumer preference, arming us with essential information to assist in further developing our marketing strategy. We now have in depth taste and sensory knowledge of Gemson, that backs up its superior agronomic benefits to the potato grower and packer. It gives us real confidence in expanding Gemson’s share of the baby potato market in the UK and Ireland.”
The research was funded by a £5,000 innovation voucher from Interface, a government-backed service that connects businesses to universities.
Source: pressandjournal.co.uk
