Potatoes from ‘potato country’

The Netherlands ranks only mid-table in potato consumption, around 22nd in the world. Countries like Belarus and Latvia may eat more potatoes per person, yet the Dutch have a relationship with the potato that goes far beyond eating. It’s a crop that shaped a nation; fuelled growth, fed the population, and earned the country its nickname: potato country. And while we may not eat the most, we grow some of the best. The Netherlands is a global leader in potato production and export, particularly of innovative seed varieties that help secure the world’s food supply.

Ilse

17 September 2025

3 minute read

Few crops capture the essence of Dutch food and ingenuity like the potato. Introduced in the 18th century as a reliable food source and a cure for scurvy, it became a symbol of resilience and sustenance. Today, Agrico carries this legacy forward. A cooperative of over 1,200 growers, Agrico combines Dutch know-how, science, and practical collaboration to develop potato varieties that can thrive anywhere on the planet, and help feed a growing population.

In the fertile fields of the Noordoostpolder in Flevoland, Agrico Research is shaping the next generation of potatoes. Their cutting-edge facilities use advanced tools such as DNA markers and molecular techniques: methods that help breeders identify and develop stronger, more resilient potato varieties faster. Climate-controlled labs test each variety under precise conditions, ensuring they can grow in different soils and climates worldwide. Globally, the potato is recognised as a vital crop in the fight against hunger: it delivers high energy and calories with relatively low water and land use, making Agrico’s innovations even more essential.

Next Generation potatoes: resilience built in

The Netherlands produces 60% of the world’s seed potatoes, with Agrico responsible for 35% of that output. From Kenya to South America, Agrico is raising the bar for sustainable agriculture. Its Next Generation potatoes are naturally resistant to Phytophthora, one of the most devastating potato diseases. These resilient varieties reduce the need for chemicals, lower the risk of crop failure, and increase yield security. By combining multiple resistance genes, Agrico ensures that each season the disease has to start ‘at the bottom of the mountain’, making infection harder and sustainability stronger.

Potatoes for a sustainable future

Agrico proves that true innovation thrives on teamwork. By uniting breeders, growers, researchers, and customers, the cooperative has built a resilient ecosystem that continually drives progress. Together, they have established Agrico as a global leader in certified seed potatoes, operating in over 80 countries and tailoring knowledge and innovations to local needs. Rooted in tradition and focused on the future, Agrico has turned the humble potato into a global force for sustainability. That’s New Dutch!

#NewDutch is a mentality, a movement, and an international platform for Dutch innovation. Discover the makers of tomorrow on www.newdutch.nl and join us!

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