Innovator POTATO

Quick Overview

• Innovator potatoes are a versatile, russet-skinned variety known for their oblong shape and smooth texture, making them a popular choice for frying and baking.
• Developed primarily for commercial use, they have gained traction in both Europe and North America due to their reliable yield and processing qualities.
• This medium-early maturing potato is favored by growers and industries alike for its adaptability and consistent performance.
• Bullet Points:
  • Russet-skinned, oblong tubers.
  • Popular for French fries, baking, and boiling.
  • Widely used in Europe and growing in North America.

Origin & History

• Innovator potatoes were bred in the Netherlands by HZPC Holland B.V., a leading potato breeding company, and officially registered in 2004.
• They are the result of a cross between the Shepody variety and RZ-84-2580, designed to meet the demands of the modern food processing industry.
• Since their introduction, Innovator potatoes have spread globally, becoming a staple in commercial agriculture, particularly in regions like Russia and North America.
• Bullet Points:
  • Originated in the Netherlands.
  • Bred by HZPC Holland B.V., registered in 2004.
  • Cross of Shepody x RZ-84-2580.

Specifications

• Innovator potatoes feature large, oblong tubers with a tan, russeted skin, shallow eyes, and cream-colored flesh that holds up well during cooking.
• The plants are medium to large with semi-erect stems, yellow-green leaves, and produce numerous white flowers during the growing season.
• They are harvested 75-85 days after planting, offering a medium-early yield of approximately 320-330 centners per hectare under optimal conditions.
• Bullet Points:
  • Large, oblong tubers with russet skin.
  • Cream-colored flesh, shallow eyes.
  • Medium-early maturity (75-85 days).

Key Characteristics

• Innovator potatoes are prized for their high dry matter content (around 21.3%) and stable starch levels (12-15%), making them ideal for French fries and industrial processing.
• They exhibit resistance to diseases like potato wart, pale cyst nematode, and certain viruses (PVX, PVY), though they are susceptible to rhizoctonia and Colorado potato beetle attacks.
• The variety’s tubers are durable, with a 95% keeping quality, tolerating mechanical damage and long-term storage for 3-4 months.
• Bullet Points:
  • High dry matter (21.3%) and starch (12-15%).
  • Disease resistant (wart, nematodes, some viruses).
  • Durable, good storage (95% keeping quality).

Health Benefits

• Innovator potatoes provide a good source of carbohydrates for energy, along with essential nutrients like vitamin C and potassium, typical of potatoes when consumed with the skin.
• Their resistant starch content, especially when cooled after cooking, may support gut health by feeding beneficial bacteria and aiding digestion.
• While not a nutritional standout, their low fat and moderate protein content make them a filling, balanced option when prepared healthily, avoiding excessive frying or toppings.
• Bullet Points:
  • Rich in carbs, vitamin C, and potassium.
  • Resistant starch supports gut health.
  • Low fat, moderate protein when minimally processed.