According to a report by RTÉ, consumers in Ireland are anticipated to face higher prices for potatoes in the upcoming months due to shortages driving up costs. Supermarket prices for this essential food item have already risen by 17.3% compared to the previous year, with further increases expected as adverse weather conditions impact plantings and harvests.
Recent agricultural data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) indicates that farmers received 74% more for potatoes in March this year than in the same period last year, signaling ongoing shortages. Sean Ryan, the national potato chairperson at the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA), noted that sustained higher prices are necessary for a viable potato industry, following years of low base prices.
Ryan highlighted the challenges faced by growers, mentioning that while current prices are attractive, many farmers sold their produce directly from fields at lower prices during harvest time. This situation has led to limited supplies available for sale now despite the increased demand and prices in the market.
