Demand for organic potato in professional kitchens and new production potential in Northern Ostrobothnia, Finland

Local and organic foods have been on the political agenda in Finland especially since 2010. There is increasing demand for local and organic food products among professional kitchens, and potatoes and potato products are among the most commonly used locally produced food stuffs. However, the supply of organic potato is quite low. The aim of this study was to investigate through a survey the present situation concerning the use of locally produced potatoes and potato products in professional kitchens in Northern Ostrobothnia and their interest and need for organic potatoes and potato products. In addition, the potential of increasing organic potato production was studied through two surveys. Majority of kitchens under study were interested in using organic potato products. However, at the moment the poor availably restricts the use of organic potato products considerably. In addition, the preliminary results indicate that farmers are especially concerned about plant protection, fluctuations in yield quantity and quality as well as pricing. Improving the availability of organic potato requires actions within the whole food supply chain. Understanding of different price requirements that producers and professional kitchens have must be improved. In addition, potential producers need better knowledge about organic farming, but above all improved availability of organic seed potatoes and new and more profitable cultivation methods.