Potatoes are rapidly losing value: what are the changes from last year’s harvest and why should this alarm consumers?

Experts point to alarming market trends: prices for some products are decreasing, but this is accompanied by a deterioration in their quality and a decrease in demand. What factors actually affect this situation, and why should this alarm consumers?

Current potato prices

According to EastFruit experts, the cost of last year’s potatoes dropped to 15-24 hryvnias per kilogram, 12% less than a week ago. However, compared to last year, prices are still 25% higher.

Reasons for the price decrease

The decrease in cost is not explained by excess supply or seasonal discounts. Experts identify two main factors:

Deterioration in potato quality. Many farms no longer have high-quality products, as the tubers begin to spoil, which forces them to sell off their stocks urgently.
Weak demand. Despite the price decrease, buyers will not rush to buy last year’s potatoes due to questions about their quality. This applies to both wholesale suppliers and supermarket chains.
Impact on consumers

Despite the fall in prices, the quality of the product is also declining. Experts emphasize the importance of caution when shopping, as potatoes with an attractive appearance but spoiled inside may appear on the markets. This may also affect the start of the new harvest season, as some farmers will be forced to sell their products at reduced prices to compensate for losses from spoiled stocks.

While the news of the price drop may seem attractive to consumers, it indicates serious problems in storage and logistics. Analysts are closely monitoring the situation on the market, and consumers are advised to inspect the products carefully before buying.