The potato industry in Aragon, Spain, saw its peak during the 1990s, with 5,000 hectares under cultivation and production exceeding 105,000 tons. However, this has since declined to 600 hectares and 1.5 million kilos of production. Despite this downturn, initiatives are underway to revive the sector.
In Torres de Albarracín, located in the Montes Universales mountains at 1,275 meters, Patatas Fernando produces 300,000 to 350,000 kilos annually. The company, driven by Pablo and Fernando Martínez and Nacho Alamán, adds value to potatoes grown on their family farms. They cultivate 4.5 hectares, yielding about 120,000 kilos annually. When production runs out, they source from Valencia and Madrid to ensure year-round supply, mainly distributing to restaurateurs in Teruel, Zaragoza, and the Valencian Community.
In the Maestrazgo region, efforts are being made to enhance the value of potatoes grown in towns like Fortanete, Cañada de Benatanduz, and Cantavieja. The recovery is evident in Cella, where production doubled last year. The La Fuente de Cella Countryside Cooperative Society, with 180 members, reached 900 tons, with total local production hitting 1,800 tons across 20 hectares. Their Agria potato brand is known for its long shelf life and versatility in cooking.
Chía potatoes in Huesca, labeled as organic, produce around 80 tons per season. The Chía Potato Producers Association, comprising five growers, uses traditional techniques. The Chía Potato Fair is held in November, promoting the variety grown at the foot of the Chía mountain range. The Kennebec variety adapts well to the local conditions, developing from May planting to October harvest.
Ángel Bonel Melero from Vera del Moncayo was recognized as the Young Potato Producer of the Year for his innovative and sustainable practices. Working on a 189-hectare family farm, he has implemented soil screening and optical technology for potato selection. Bonel emphasizes innovation and environmental care, reducing the carbon footprint by 30% through sustainable practices.
Patatas Gómez, a company in the sector, collaborates with farmers across Spain, including a group in Aragon cultivating 100 hectares of the Agria variety under the Potatico brand. With around 150 employees, the company packaged 100,000 tons last year, distributing across Spain and Europe.
Source: ArgenPapa