One of the agri-food products undeniably associated with Poland is the potato. It is cultivated on nearly 200,000 hectares, with annual production reaching just under 6 million tonnes. Poland ranks as the fourth-largest producer in the European Union, after Germany, France, and the Netherlands. The average Pole consumes approximately 94 kilograms per year – significantly above the EU average of 63 kilograms per person.
It may therefore come as a surprise that none of Poland’s traditional potato varieties has so far applied for protection under the European system of geographical indications. Fortunately, farmers from the Sieradz region are addressing this gap. “Sieradz Potato” has formally initiated the procedure to obtain Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status. We wish them every success.
In just a few months – at least four – consumers will once again be able to taste this seasonal specialty. The first “Sieradz potatoes” appear as early as mid-May and are harvested until July.
The Sieradz county is characterised predominantly by brown and podzolic soils, known for their high permeability and rapid warming capacity. Combined with the area’s mild climate, these conditions create an ideal environment for potato cultivation. Sunny days accelerate soil warming, allowing planting as early as February, while moderate early-summer temperatures help achieve optimal yields and preserve the distinctive flavour and quality.
In addition, a specialised cultivation technology is applied – including a pre-sprouting process before planting, hardening of seed potatoes, adherence to at least the principles of the Integrated Production system, as well as practices such as delivering freshly harvested potatoes to consumers within days (without prolonged storage) and field-level packaging (facilitated by the loose structure of Sieradz soils, which allows soil to fall off easily). These are only selected examples among many interconnected practices that together create a truly unique product.
This seasonal delicacy is not to be missed.