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The Czech Agriculture and Food Inspection Authority (CAFIA) continuously checked uniformity and authenticity of potato varieties on the domestic market throughout last year. From the beginning of the year to the end of December, the inspectors checked 99 batches of early (21 batches) and late (78 batches) potatoes, mainly in the trade network but also at wholesale companies and producers. Apart from seven batches, all samples taken were of domestic origin.

The outcome of last year’s inspection confirmed a long-term improvement trend of the quality of potatoes  on the market because only two batches (i.e. 2%) did not comply with the requirements of regulations this time, both of Czech origin. For comparison: in 1999, the Authority identified deficiencies in 43% of batches inspected, in 21% in 2000 and less than in 8% in 2003. This positive development is also a result of regular inspections carried out by the Food Inspection Authority, about the outcome of which CAFIA repeatedly inform the business community.

The authenticity of potato varieties is one of the criterions the Food Inspection Authority has been monitoring for potatoes. Even though it does not belong to the parameters that could put consumers´ health in danger it protects them from being misled. Variety is the main factor determining the quality and cooking type of potatoes and difference between different varieties then determines their position and use on the market. When buying potatoes consumers have no chance to find out whether the potatoes correspond to the declared variety, i.e. cooking type, and therefore to the required quality.

Table: Inspection results of authenticity and uniformity of potatoes in 1999-2005