MainPotRe continues to promote healthy seed potatoes and local varieties, strengthening food security and preserving cultural heritage

The interview was given by the leading researcher at the Institute of Agricultural Resources and Economics, potato breeder Ilze Skrabule, and the leading researcher, head of the international initiative “Potatoes Unite,” Ilze Dimante.

In the introduction to the article, Ilze Dimante talks about how potatoes have helped nations survive difficult times and how few resources are required to grow them while providing consumers with a product that contains almost all the most important nutrients.

It is also emphasised that potatoes are a product that unites very different people because everyone has an opinion about potatoes.

The article briefly reviews the experience of all project partner countries in preserving ancient or heirloom varieties, indicating which varieties could be registered in each partner country and how they should be preserved so that seed material can be officially grown.

Ilze Skrabule explains why it is important to treat potatoes for viral diseases and what methods are used to do so, and reminds us that planting material should be regularly renewed by choosing certified seed potatoes. She also mentions the risks that may be encountered if planting material is not renewed.

Ilze Dimante presents the survey results, which reflect differences in the project partner countries in the purchase of seed potatoes, knowledge of potato varieties, and potato growing habits.

The article also discusses modern potato breeding and consumption trends, pointing out the diverse tastes of consumers. Both experts share useful tips on growing potatoes.

Programme Manual Online

Choose