A campaign organised by the British Potato Council to educate consumers about the different potato varieties available has found knowledge among chefs is lacking.
BPC marketing executive, Caroline Evans said: "Although the campaign was developed to educate consumers about different potato varieties, we have discovered that many chefs don't appreciate that different varieties of potato have unique characteristics that make them perfect for some types of cooking and preparation, but not for others. Independent research commissioned by the BPC revealed that consumers are often disappointed with the quality of potatoes served in pubs and restaurants - part of this could be because the chef is using the wrong type of potato for that particular method of cooking."
The council has now recruited chefs Paul Gayler, Brian Turner and Ross Burden to promote the health benefits of potatoes to consumers and to educate them about the different varieties available and each has different qualities which make them more suitable for certain types of cooking than others.
Along with Richard and Judy TV presenter Mike McClean and sporting personalities Tessa Sanderson and Sharron Davies, the chefs were asked to share with the nation their favourite varieties of potato how they prefer them to be cooked.
Gayler said: "Charlotte potatoes are the perfect addition to my salad."
Turner added: "Potato Wedges are my favourite accompaniment. That's why I'm backing Maris Peer."
Burden backed Desiree saying: "Sausage and mash is my favourite dish - that's why I'm backing the Desiree, which makes smooth, creamy mash."
Evans said: "We've also developed a quick reference chart for caterers to help them choose the variety most suited to their needs."
Free copies of the chart, are available from the BPC by logging onto: www.potatoesforcaterers.co.uk.
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