Andina

Peru exports 500 tons of native potatoes a year

13:19 | Lima, May. 30.

Peru exports nearly 500 tons of native potato a year, thus becoming the largest producer of this tuber in Latin America, National Coordination of Potato Producers (Corpapa) Deputy Chairman Juan Carhuaz informed Wednesday.

In this sense, Carhuaz remarked the Inca country's annual potato output stands at 4.7 million tons.

"More than 3,000 out of the 5,000 potato varieties existing worldwide are grown and produced in our country," the officer pointed out.

"For that reason, we want the population to know there are many more potato varieties, besides the classic white and yellow ones," he added.

On the occasion of National Potato Day, Invita Peru food festival promotes the consumption of the Andean tuber by presenting three different types: 

Camotillo potato: It is white and has the texture of a yellow potato. It is perfect for boiling.  

Leona potato: This purple-fleshed potato contains high antioxidant levels. It is also high in iron and vitamin C.

Qeqorani potato: Besides its excellent taste, this potato helps prevent diseases such as cancer.

There are many reasons to consume Peruvian potatoes, not only for their unique flavor but also for the properties and vitamins they contain.

As is known, President Martin Vizcarra —last Monday— opened the 10th World Potato Congress in South-Andean city of Cusco.

(END) TMC/MAO/JAA/MVB

Published: 5/30/2018