03 Oct Embrace Every WA Potato: How to Tackle the Potato Shortage With Local Spuds
Western Australians love their local potatoes—but right now, supply is tighter than usual, and some popular varieties are in shorter supply. WA Potatoes is encouraging everyone to embrace the natural variations in our local spuds, and to get creative with how we use and store them at home.
Recent growing conditions have resulted in smaller harvests than normal, meaning not every potato will look the same. Size, shape, and colour variations are natural and a sign of healthy, locally grown produce—but sometimes they can be overlooked at the supermarket.
Why embracing WA potatoes matters
WA Potatoes spokesperson, Simon Moltoni, explains:
“Potatoes are a staple of the West Australian kitchen, and our local growers work hard to provide the freshest produce. During times of tight supply, we ask consumers to embrace the full range of WA potatoes. By doing so, you’re supporting growers, reducing food waste, and still getting delicious, nutritious potatoes for your weekly meals.”
Accepting a wider variety of spuds helps supermarkets adapt to seasonal supply challenges and ensures that families can continue enjoying fresh potatoes without worrying about minor differences in appearance.
Tips for storing your WA potatoes
To make the most of your potatoes and keep them fresh for longer:
Cool, dark, and dry: Store potatoes in a cool, dry place away from sunlight to prevent sprouting and greening. Ideal temperature: 7–10°C.
Keep them ventilated: Use a paper bag, cardboard box, or mesh bag. Avoid sealed plastic bags, which trap moisture and can cause rotting.
Separate from onions: Onions release gases that can make potatoes spoil faster, so keep them apart.
Check regularly: Remove any potatoes that start to sprout or soften to prevent affecting the rest of the batch.
Use creatively: Even smaller or misshapen potatoes can be roasted, mashed, or turned into soups, salads, or wedges—nothing goes to waste!
Read more food waste tips for spuds here:
Getting creative with potatoes
WA Potatoes has a fantastic recipe database of over 250 dishes to try! From crispy roasties and creamy mash to potato salads and hearty soups, there’s no end to the delicious meals you can make with WA-grown spuds.
By embracing local potatoes, supporting WA growers, and learning how to store them properly, we can all help reduce food waste and enjoy fresh, nutritious potatoes every week.
