Sweet potato supply has tightened almost overnight as the effects from storms that hit North Carolina before Christmas are now being felt across the market.
Supplier Scott Farms International, whose farms were largely unaffected, said there has been a “significant upturn in orders” over the past few days.
Garry Smith, of spirits subsidiary Sweet Potato Spirit Company, said the UK market is currently “very strong”. “It is a combination of the storms, and some crops that have come over that have had significant quality issues, so we have seen the benefit from this,” he said.
Smith was speaking at Fruit Logistica, taking place in Berlin this week, where the company’s stand-cum-bar is showcasing the innovation in both the added value and fresh sides of the business.
On fresh, Scott Farms has recently launched a steam-in-the-bag family pack of sweet potatoes, as well as individual microwaveable portions. “They are great for daily use, they are washed and in clean packaging so you can take it straight to the office for a nutritious lunch,” said Smith.
The Sweet Potato Spirit Company has two new additions to its range of premium spirits – marshmallow, and chocolate and chilli moonshine. The range is listed with specialist retailers, farmshops and delis, and interest is continuing to gather momentum, Smith said.
A mobile bar that has been towed to Berlin across Europe is offering stand visitors a range of cocktails made from sweet potato spirits, while new fresh products are also on display.“The idea behind the stand is to showcase the quality and innovation we have on offer,” added Smith.
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