Two thirds of Brits will eat potatoes at Christmas

Potatoes are the most popular Christmas food on plates with two thirds of Brits reporting they won’t go without, a new survey has found. 

The survey, run by Statista in October and November 2025, asked people what they are most likely to eat on Christimas day.

Overall, potatoes were the non-negotiable above other festive favourites, including turkey (63 per cent), gravy (52 per cent), stuffing (49 per cent) and pigs in blankets (48 per cent).

While 66 per cent of Brits will eat roasties, just over a third of those asked will eat mash on the big day. 

“It’s fantastic to see the potato is still king of the plate at Christmas and that’s no surprise,” said Alex Godfrey, chair of GB Potatoes.

“It’s very rewarding that of all the wonderful foods that make up the Christmas meal, potatoes are the ones that won’t be compromised on,” he said.

Grower Tom Stevenson said potatoes are “a brilliant British food story”. ”They grow well across the UK, and we are really proud to grow such an iconic vegetable, that is as much a Christmas dinner staple, as they are all year round on the plate,” he said.

“Beyond the traditional types, there are plenty of modern varieties – like Sagitta, Rooster, Jelly, Panther, Markies and Nemo – that roast beautifully.”

The first record of potatoes for Christmas dinner in England was under the reign of Queen Victoria, with approximately 250 million now consumed over the festive period.

Cookery writer Jenny Linford, whose book, Potatoes, features 65 ways to cook from fries to pies, said: “Whatever else is on the plate, it’s the golden roast potatoes that all ages really look forward to.

“Maris Piper or a heritage variety like King Edward, roasted in really hot goose fat, will give you the ultimate crispy on the outside, fluffy within. And don’t forget to make extra for easy entertaining between Christmas and new year. One of our family traditions is Boxing Day bubble and squeak with left over roasties, sprouts and bacon,” she said.