Early Estonian New Potatoes Hit Shelves
Estonian early potatoes have arrived in markets and shops about a week earlier than usual. Despite higher prices compared to imported potatoes, most customers prefer the local produce.
Farmers in the village of Lätkalu, Viljandi parish, started harvesting new potatoes last week. According to growers, the crop has never ripened this early before. Janek Lass, board member of Koorti Kartul, said that all necessary work was done on time and the weather was favorable this year. The wholesale price ranges from €2.5 to €3 per kilogram.
On Tuesday, Estonian new potatoes went on sale at the Rimi store in Türi. Store manager Viija Schumann commented that the price is around €3.5 per kilogram and sales are good because the potatoes are high-quality and visually appealing.
At Tallinn markets, prices are higher, ranging from €3.5 to over €8 per kilogram. French or Moroccan potatoes sometimes cost half as much, yet most buyers still choose the local product. Shopper Lidija said Estonian potatoes are tastier, yellow, not watery, and filling. Stella prefers Estonian potatoes to support local producers, while Alexander noted that prices are steep and people have to budget carefully in the current unstable economy.
Besides potatoes, Estonian cabbage, cucumbers, tomatoes, and other vegetables are already available, along with strawberries at €12.5 per kilogram. Seller Adeline remarked that people love and buy Estonian products because of the taste, and expects prices to start dropping slightly next week.
