Summer begins as Cornish New potatoes arrive on shelves

The fresh, seasonal New potato crop is the first of the year from the UK’s mainland, and will be available to buy until early August.

Sharon Affleck, sales and marketing director at Tesco’s supplier Branston said: “We know consumers love the fact that these potatoes are freshly harvested and brought to store in the shortest amount of time possible.

"That sweet fresh taste is one of the main reasons UK consumers love seasonal potatoes.

“As soon as the potatoes reach the right size they are harvested and packed as quickly as possible at our site in the South West.

“Harvesting just after the plants have flowered while the skins are still thin and fluffy gives that traditional New potato texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavour. We know that customers are also attracted to their convenience and versatility. There is no need to peel them, so they are very quick and easy to prepare.

Freshly harvested Cornish New potatoes

“To bring the freshest and tastiest potatoes to Tesco shoppers, we work very closely with our Cornish farmers – many of whom are third, fourth or even fifth generation growers – to ensure that the New potato crop is ready at the optimum time.”

Phil Rogers and his family, from West Cornwall, have been working with Branston for more than 25 years growing Cornish New potatoes on some of the most fertile land across Cornwall, from St Buryan to Newquay. The family have farmed at Pengelly Barton near Breage since 1967.

Phil said: “Some of our earliest crops are grown in the rich, fertile fields overlooking the sea.

"The milder sea air helps to keep frost at bay and enables the crops to get a really early start."