During the inaugural State of the Potato speech, Willie Jacobs, CEO of Potatoes SA, told delegates that South Africans have eaten twice as many potatoes in the past decade.
Jacobs: “Despite rising costs, unstable weather conditions due to climate change and the general uncertainty associated with Covid-19, our approximately 570 South African potato growers, spread over 16 growing areas, have managed to produce 12 months per year. supply fresh potatoes every year. “
“By 2020, South Africa growers planted potatoes on approximately 51,000 hectares. A total potato crop of 2.6 million tons was grown and yielded 263 million bags of potatoes weighing 10 kg. Our consumption per capita has increased over the past ten years. doubled. “
The South African potato sector employs 50,000 to 60,000 temporary and permanent employees.
Getting more South Africans to choose potatoes
In recent years, the potato industry has prioritized expanding its consumer base in South Africa, where cornmeal and bread are the most consumed sources of carbohydrates.
The Covid pandemic has highlighted the important role potatoes play in nutritional security and poverty.
The potato price has increased by 11% to a reported average of € 2.6 for a 10 kg bag as the weather is getting colder in South Africa.
Potatoes SA: “By 2020, South Africa growers planted potatoes on approximately 51,000 ha. A total potato crop of 2.6 million tons was grown and yielded 263 million 10kg bags of potatoes. Our consumption per capita has been in the past ten. doubled in years. “
