Organic potatoes are having a tough time. How to give that some perspective, though? Jan-Eric Geersing of Geersing Potato Specialist highlights the various possibilities, with their main variety, the phytophthora-resistant Cammeo, as a solution.
Marcel and Jan-Eric Geersing
"At the start of the season, it was already evident that organic potato prices wouldn't reach the same level as last year. Phytophthora - of which there was simply too much this season - was dominating the market, limiting availability," says Jan-Eric
"With prices moving toward those of conventional potatoes, the surplus was expected to sell anyway, which it did. But instead of introducing more consumers to organic, those potatoes were absorbed into the mainstream, and supermarkets used organic potatoes to keep the average square foot price up or make more profit."
"We suggest to our organic growers that Planet Proof's a clear plus. That's not why they grow potatoes in the first place, but it ensures you keep all marketing channels open. Despite a €26 million stimulus plan, 15% organic isn't going to be achieved unless there's some kind of marketing regulation. Government regulation is often considered a 'dirty' word, but something has to happen. So, we're asking: get everyone involved," Jan-Eric advises.
"In the coming season, sales expansion seems to be the magic word. If the tide's not turning, try broadening your sales. People love French fries. You could escape to conventional but then do something with the advantage you already have: Planet Proof. As long as that doesn't change the game's rules like in 2021."
"These factors lead to a clear shift in potato variety choice. Regarding yields, you must be able to compete with conventional. Better still, be Planet Proof. You must also be able to make French fries from them. The Cammeo variety has all that. In a conventional variety trial field, it achieved the highest yield among all the trading companies' varieties. It's phytophthora-resistant, Planet Proof, and suitable for fries. In short, 'Bio-or-not-to-bio' is no longer the question," concludes Jan-Eric.
For more information:
Jan-Eric Geersing
Geersing Potato Specialist B.V.
10 Banterweg
8302 AC, Emmeloord, NL
Tel: +31 (0) 610 537 192
Email: jan-eric@geersingpotatospecialist.com
Website: www.geersingpotatospecialist.com