Sales of potatoes increase by 5%

FIGURES released by Bord Glas indicate that retail sales of potatoes increased by 5% in the last year, with consumers spending €161 million.

The findings also show that 93% of households purchase potatoes with an average spend per buyer of €135 in 2002. Multiple supermarkets account for 61% of all potato sales.

The figures were released to coincide with Bord Glas's promotion of the British Queen potato, which sees peak availability during July and August.

Bord Glas is highlighting the benefits of the potato to consumers including its great flavour, convenience and as an excellent source of vitamin C.

The British Queen accounts for 11% of total potato production and is worth €9m at farmgate level.

Some 3,600 acres of the crop are grown, with Dublin and Wexford being the main producing counties giving rise to names like Rush Queens and Wexford Queens.

Bord Glas development marketing executive Teresa Brophy said now is the time of the year to watch out for new British Queen potatoes in the shops.

There are plenty of cool snack ideas with which to enjoy this versatile potato, she said. "The British Queen variety is recognisable by its white skin and creamy to white flesh. It is a very floury potato.

"Whether it's potato salad, wedges, potato cakes or croquettes, new potatoes are an ideal accompaniment for barbecues and are virtually fat-free," said Ms Brophy.