THE POTATO.

Hokitika Guardian, 2 May 1921, Page 4

THE POTATO.

UTILISING A SURPLUS

WELLINGTON, April 30

During last year a bumper crop of potatoes was obtained, exceeding the Dominion requirements by many thousands of tons. Owing to the prohibition of importation imposed by tho Commonwealth of Australia no outlet for the surplus crop in that direction was available. The question of utilising surplus potatoes for other purposes, such as the making of potato Hour and starch, was considered by the Department of Industries and Commerce. Teds were made l>v a leading baker to ascertain how far potatoes could he used in the manufacture of bread, hut, unfortunately, this means of utilising potatoes was not found to he of much benefit, in that the added cost ot the manufacture of bread containing a large proportion of potatoes outweighed the advantage of using cheap potatoes. It wits also found that there was considerablo danger of bread becoming sour. Furthermore, the general adopts n of patent yeast in bread-making now lenders the inclusion of potatoes unnecessary. Attention wfts then given by the Department to the utilisation of potatoes for the purpose of making potato flour and starch. Tn regard to starch, it was ascertained that for laundry work starch made from first-quality rice is required ; potato starch is not suitable. Information from the High Commissioner is now to hand regarding the manufacture of potato Hour in England. This goes very fully into the matter. The Department communicated the full information received to the potatoproducing interests of New Zealand, who are desirous of preventing a repetition of last year’s waste on account of lack of a market, or inability to make economic lisa of the potatoes.