The National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA) in Argentina has introduced a promising new potato variety designed specifically for chip production and improved long-term storage. This innovation aims to strengthen the domestic processing sector and increase the competitiveness of Argentina’s potato industry.
A Variety Tailored for Processing
According to INTA, the main breeding objective was to develop a potato variety that combines:
- Low sugar content to ensure light-colored, high-quality chips,
- Stable processing quality during long storage periods,
- High yield and adaptability across Argentina’s diverse growing regions.
Experts emphasize that the country’s potato processing industry consistently needs raw material with predictable technological characteristics. This new variety is expected to reduce reliance on imported processing potatoes and improve supply chain stability.
Key Advantages
INTA highlights several important attributes of the new variety:
- Optimal tuber shape and size, ideal for slicing,
- High final product yield during processing,
- Reduced storage losses, essential for industrial use,
- Improved resistance to key diseases, lowering production costs.
Strategic Impact on the Sector
Argentina’s potato chip industry continues to grow, with rising demand for high-quality processing potatoes. Locally developed varieties provide several strategic benefits:
- Lower production and supply costs,
- More reliable access to raw material for processing plants,
- Support for regional growers specialized in processing potatoes,
- Potential for future export opportunities.
Next Steps
In the coming months, INTA will distribute the new variety to growers for field trials across multiple provinces. After evaluating performance results, commercial multiplication and distribution of seed material will begin.
