First German new potatoes harvested in Pfalz region

In the German Pfalz region, farmers officially kicked off the harvest of the first German new potatoes. A former soccer player on the national team, Hans-Peter Briegel, was named Pfalz potato ambassador for the season 2016/17.

Since the harvest started on only a few of the 303 farms the fresh potatoes will in the beginning mainly be sold at the farms and at street markets in the direct surroundings of the farms. The first potatoes that reach the market were grown under plastic.

The first new potatoes, planted in February, are of the varieties Annabelle or Berber and only a few are ready for harvesting.

The early varieties Annabelle or Berber need 80 to 90 days to grow and this ensures the first position of the region compared to other German regions. During the season’s high point, the beginning of July, the daily harvest is about 3,000 metric tons, this amount corresponds to 120 trucks.

The „Pfälzer Grumbeere“ need good care and the right timing

Georg Riede:

“To supply the growing amount of Palatine new potato lovers at the right time, our 303 potato producers need perfect timing and to take good care during the harvest!”

Compared to other vegetables the new potatoes with their paper-thin skin need an extra fast chain of supply. New potatoes don’t need to be peeled, a good wash is sufficient. This way the valuable vitamins, minerals and fibers, which can be found directly under the skin, remain in the potato while preparing them. The new potatoes are delicious, versatile and healthy.