Third Year Without... the Norwegian Potato. The Reason Is Surprising
The Norwegian potato market is once again facing a shortage of the distinctive Ringerikspotet variety. According to the company BAMA, the vegetable will also not reach stores in 2025. The main reason is the aftermath of the extreme weather event 'Hans', which in 2023 destroyed large areas of farmland in Norway. Production of this traditional variety has still not been restored.
It's all due to the destruction of seed potatoes, which are special tubers used for potato production.
Fot. BillyBonkers, za BAMA
The extreme downpours of 2023 occurred just as the Lerberg farm in Ringerike was planning to replace a large portion of its seed potatoes. According to local farmer Bernt Gran, the damage was total and could not be recovered in a short time.
Ringerikspotet is an old, demanding variety that yields less than modern types and is susceptible to plant diseases. For this reason, healthy seed potatoes are crucial and are prepared over several years. The losses in 2023 meant that the potatoes could not reach the market in either 2024 or 2025.
Ringerikspotet is an old, demanding variety that yields less than modern types and is susceptible to plant diseases. For this reason, healthy seed potatoes are crucial and are prepared over several years. The losses in 2023 meant that the potatoes could not reach the market in either 2024 or 2025.
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Currently, Lerberg gård remains the only farm cultivating Ringerikspotet. Previously, there were several producers, but after the effects of the natural disaster, the others ceased operations.
Gran admitted that if this year's attempt to restore the seed potatoes fails, it could mean the definitive end of production. However, he emphasized that giving up is not easy, as this variety has been part of his family's history for generations.
Gran admitted that if this year's attempt to restore the seed potatoes fails, it could mean the definitive end of production. However, he emphasized that giving up is not easy, as this variety has been part of his family's history for generations.
Ringerikspotet is a traditional variety of Norwegian potato.Photo: BillyBonkers, via BAMA
BAMA assures that it is closely monitoring the situation and hopes for improvement. According to its representatives, the goal is to bring Ringerikspotet back to store shelves in 2026. This potato is considered an important element of Norwegian culinary tradition. The fate of next year's harvest will be crucial for the future of its cultivation.
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