Impala Potato Supplier

Quick Overview

The Impala potato is a versatile, early-maturing variety prized for its smooth texture, excellent taste, and reliable yields, making it a favorite among both commercial growers and home cooks. Developed primarily for fresh market use, this variety features attractive, oval-shaped tubers with shallow eyes, yellow skin, and creamy yellow flesh that retains its shape well during cooking. Impala potatoes are known for their adaptability to various growing conditions, including warmer climates where other varieties might struggle, ensuring consistent production in diverse regions. Their quick maturation period allows farmers to harvest early, providing an advantage in markets where early-season potatoes command premium prices. With balanced starch content and a mild, buttery flavor, Impala potatoes are ideal for boiling, roasting, and salads, though they are not typically used for processing into chips or starch.

Origin & History

Impala was developed in the Netherlands by leading potato breeders aiming to create a high-yielding, early-season variety suitable for both European and subtropical climates. Introduced in the late 1990s, it quickly gained popularity in Mediterranean countries, South Africa, and the Middle East due to its heat tolerance and resistance to common potato diseases. The variety was specifically bred to meet the demands of fresh markets, offering a visually appealing tuber with excellent culinary qualities. Over time, Impala became a staple in regions with shorter growing seasons, where its rapid growth cycle (70–90 days) allows farmers to maximize productivity. Today, it remains a top choice for growers seeking a reliable, early-harvest potato that delivers consistent quality and consumer appeal.

Specifications

Impala potatoes are characterized by their medium starch content (12–15%), placing them in the “all-purpose” category with a texture that holds up well in boiling and salads while still being suitable for light frying. The tubers are medium-sized (100–150g), with an oval to oblong shape, smooth yellow skin, and creamy yellow flesh that resists discoloration after cooking. This variety matures early (70–90 days), allowing for quick turnover in the field and reducing exposure to late-season pests and diseases. Impala plants are vigorous and adaptable, performing well in both sandy and loamy soils, though they prefer well-drained conditions to prevent tuber rot. While not highly resistant to late blight, Impala shows moderate tolerance to common scab and other soil-borne pathogens, making it a low-maintenance option for many growers.

Key Characteristics

1. Early Maturity: Impala’s quick growth cycle (70–90 days) enables early harvests, giving farmers a competitive edge in fresh markets.
2. Adaptability: Thrives in diverse climates, including warmer regions where other potato varieties may fail, ensuring reliable yields.
3. Culinary Versatility: The balanced starch content makes it suitable for boiling, roasting, and salads, with a firm texture that holds shape.
4. Consumer Appeal: Attractive, uniform tubers with smooth yellow skin and minimal blemishes enhance marketability for fresh sales.
5. Moderate Disease Resistance: While not immune, Impala shows resilience against common scab and other field diseases, reducing dependency on chemical treatments.

Best Uses

Impala potatoes are best suited for fresh market and table use, excelling in dishes that require a firm, waxy texture, such as potato salads, boiled potatoes, and roasted preparations. Their mild, buttery flavor makes them a favorite for home cooking and restaurant menus, particularly in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. While they can be used for light frying or sautéing, their medium starch content means they are not ideal for crispy French fries or potato chips, which require higher-starch varieties. Impala is also not typically used for starch production, as its dry matter content is lower than processing-focused potatoes like Agria. Instead, its primary value lies in its all-around table use, offering a reliable, tasty option for everyday meals and gourmet dishes alike.

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Key Takeaways

Not for Processing: Best used for boiling, salads, and roasting rather than chips or starch.

Early & Adaptable: Perfect for regions with short growing seasons or warmer climates.

Fresh Market Star: High consumer demand due to attractive appearance and culinary versatility.