Aid will be provided to approved projects, which provide facilities for the storage and marketing of seed and ware potatoes. The Minister stated that application forms for the new scheme are available from the Department and the latest date for the submission of applications is 30 March, 2001. Rooster 180- 230. Record 180- 250. Others for peeling and catering sector 180- 200.
Higher prices are for washing standard materials.
Most potato stores should be at or near target temperature at the moment. The target temperature will vary according to variety and also the end use of the potatoes. Dormancy break has occurred in some varieties already so sprouting is an issue at this stage. Refrigeration where possible will control sprouting in most varieties at storage temperatures of 2.5-3 C. this temperature will also control diseases like silver scurf and will slow down development of rotting diseases like tuber blight and soft rot. The major disadvantages of storing at low temperatures are firstly a greater risk of gangrene and an increase in the level of reducing sugars which affects fry colour in processing material and also affects the eating quality of tubers at later stages of the storage period giving the potatoes a sweet taste.