Weekly Potato Report

March 31, 2010

From the Michigan Potato Industry Commission

Potato Market Update by Bruce Huffaker

Dealers report mounting problems with storage chip potato supplies as the season winds toward a close. In Michigan, growers could be 10%-15% short on contract volume, on average. Some potatoes might last until June 1 if they had a chance of making it. However, the good potatoes will be needed well before that date. Storage breakdown problems continue, and more potatoes are going off color. Dealers are getting anxious about supplies during April and May, due to the loss of storage potatoes, as well as Florida crop problems.

Central Florida growers will start digging potatoes by April 10, though they are telling chippers that the potatoes need to wait until April 17 to reach their yield potential. The last half of the central Florida crop could have normal yields with good weather, and enough time. The crop needs more heat units and less rain. Morning temperatures fell to 43º F this morning. In Hastings, the crop is developing rapidly, but it is at least 2-3 weeks behind schedule. Dealers are hoping to get the first potatoes from that region by May 1, but it could be May 15 before much volume is available.

In the fresh market, Michigan packers shipped 60,000 cwt of potatoes during the week ending March 27. That is up from 35,000 cwt a year ago. Last week's shipments were 81.3% Russet potatoes, and 18.0% Round White varieties.

Michigan size A Russets are selling for mostly $1.10-$1.30 per 10# bag, unchanged for the week. In Wisconsin, packers are selling non Size A Russets in 10# bags for mostly $4.50 per 50# bale, also unchanged for the week. Wisconsin 50-70 count cartons are selling for mostly $6.25-$6.50 per 50# box, unchanged from last week. The weighted average price for Idaho Russet Burbanks advanced to $8.43 per cwt, from $8.23 at the same time last week.

Michigan shippers are selling Round White potatoes for mostly $1.10-$1.20 per 10# bag, unchanged for the week. In Maine, 10/5# bales of 2 inch minimum Round White potatoes are selling for $5.50-$6.50 per bale, also unchanged for the week. In Florida, limited supplies of Size A Round White potatoes were selling for $25.00 per 50# sack, unchanged for the week.

This weekly newsletter has more complete potato market information. For subscription information call (208) 525-8397, fax (208) 525-8569, write PO Box 135, Shelley ID 83274, or e-mail napmn@napmn.com.

This Weekly Potato Report includes current Michigan grower issues, in depth market news, and other time sensitive information. This report contains market sensitive information and your candor in using this information is appreciated. Your comments and suggestions are vital to improving this report and other services.

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