Cornish New potatoes, the UK’s first mainland New potato crop of the year, signalled the start of summer for Tesco shoppers last week, as they launched in national stores on Tuesday 11 June.
“We know consumers love the fact that these potatoes are freshly harvested and brought to store in the shortest amount of time possible,” said Sharon Affleck, sales and marketing director at Tesco’s supplier Branston. “That sweet fresh taste is one of the main reasons UK consumers love seasonal potatoes
“As soon as the potatoes reach the right size they are harvested and packed as quickly as possible at our site in the South-West.
“Harvesting just after the plants have flowered, while the skins are still thin and fluffy gives that traditional New potato texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavour. We know that customers are also attracted to their convenience and versatility. There is no need to peel them, so they are very quick and easy to prepare.”
Sharon added: “To bring the freshest and tastiest potatoes to Tesco shoppers, we work very closely with our Cornish farmers – many of whom are third, fourth or even fifth generation growers – to ensure that the New potato crop is ready at the optimum time.”
Phil Rogers and his family, from West Cornwall, have been working with Branston for more than 25 years growing Cornish New potatoes on some of the most fertile land across Cornwall, from St Buryan to Newquay. The family have farmed at Pengelly Barton near Breage since 1967.
“Some of our earliest crops are grown in the rich, fertile fields overlooking the sea. The milder sea air helps to keep frost at bay and enables the crops to get a really early start.
“As they’re growing we use natural seaweed extract to feed the plants and we monitor them really closely so that we can start harvesting as soon as they’re ready,” said Phil.
Cornish New potatoes will be available in Tesco stores in 750g packs and as a loose option both online and in-store until early August.
To inspire the general public and champion seasonal potatoes’ health, versatility and affordability, Branston has launched a consumer initiative; Seasonal Spuds. The dedicated website and social media channels host recipes for seasonal New potatoes, as well as competitions and information about the nation’s favourite vegetable.
For more information, visit www.branston.com or www.seasonalspuds.com.