Scottish tatties could be in abundance for Christmas dinner

THERE could be more Scottish tatties on Christmas dinner tables across the UK this year.

While there was a five per cent drop in UK production this season, 2016 was a better year for potatoes in Scotland.

Production is up nine per cent on 2015 with export figures also looking very healthy. Early Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA) data shows non-EU seed exports from July to November up 40 per cent.

Scottish yields per hectare were above the GB average this year – 46.4t/ha compared to 44.9t/ha. However, this year’s Scottish average is still down on the last couple of years (tonnage per hectare was 47.8 in 2015 and 46.9 in 2014). The increase in production can be attributed to an increase in planted area, up to 26,300 ha from 23,600 ha, resulting in output of 1,223,000 tonnes.

Agriculture and Horticultural Development Board (AHDB) potatoes analyst Arthur Marshall said: ‘With the smaller GB crop this year, prices have already reacted and are at higher levels than last year. So, for example, Scottish grade 1 packing whites were averaging £208/t ex-farm in the first week of December, compared to £155/t in the same week a year ago.

‘Also, the price differential between Scottish and English packing whites, and Maris Piper, is widening. While Scottish prices have been rising, English prices have been rising faster. The wider the difference gets, the more likely Scottish supplies are to head south as English-based buyers are more likely to look towards cheaper Scottish supplies.’

After Maris Piper, the most popular potato planted in Scotland this year was Hermes, which is generally destined for more exotic locations.

SASA data shows that more than 54,000 tonnes of Scottish seed has been shipped to non-EU countries so far this year, up on around 39,000 in same period last year (July to November). The majority of Scotland’s seed potatoes are exported to Egypt with over 50,000 exported there last year. However, AHDB is keen both to open new markets and increase volumes going to existing markets to ensure we are less dependent on Egypt for export income. Alistair Melrose, chairman of AHDB’s seed and export committee, said: ‘Trade dialogue has ensured that our largest export market, Egypt, continues to increase GB seed imports year on year. However, we are exporting seed to over 50 countries and better utilising those markets offers opportunities for our export community to spread risk and capitalise on varietal requirements and climate/ season differences. I’m pleased the new strategy is getting more Scottish seed out to these existing markets, and to opening new markets.’