Consumers face higher potato prices due to shortages

Consumers will face higher potato prices in the coming months as shortages push up prices.

The cost of potatoes in supermarkets is already up 17.3% compared to a year ago, but such costs are expected to rise further due to the impact of bad weather on last year's harvest and on this year's planting season.

Figures published by the CSO show that amid the shortages farmers were paid 74% more for potatoes in March of this year compared to what they were paid a year previously.

National Potato Chairman with the IFA Sean Ryan said the increase reflects the low base of prices last year, and a scarcity of potatoes that will continue for the rest of this year.

"Scarcity of supply is reflected in the prices quoted... which have come off the back of unsustainable prices for the last 10 years," Mr Ryan said.

"Current prices need to be sustained for a viable potato industry," he added.