Following successful field trials, the James Hutton Institute based at Invergowrie, has donated three tonnes of locally grown potatoes to Cyrenians, Scotland’s charity for homelessness, for distribution to communities in need across the country.

The Institute, driven by the goal of delivering food security, is the leading potato research centre in the UK. Its research is focused on finding potatoes which can handle threats such as climate change, pest and disease, and with its predecessor institutes is responsible for developing over 100 types of potato over the last century, many of which are commercially available today.

A variety of potatoes have been grown at the Institute’s Balruddery Farm near Dundee and are being taken to Cyrenians FareShare food depots in Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Glasgow to be shared with people in need across Scotland.

Colin Campbell, James Hutton Chief Executive, said, “The climate, nature crisis and insecurities we see in food, water and energy are all interlinked. A key goal for us is delivering food security without damaging nature or forcing more climate change. This is a critical issue at a time when so many of our crops including the potato, are failing due to climate change, pest and disease. I am so pleased this yield will be turned into delicious and nourishing meals, reaching those who need it the most this Christmas.

“A special thanks to FareShare and Cyrenians for their support in arranging the collection and distribution of the potatoes, we pay tribute to all they do”.

It is estimated one in five families in Scotland will struggle to pay their weekly food bill this winter.

Lynne Collie, Senior Enterprise Manager at Cyrenians said, “This donation will be distributed to some of the most vulnerable people in society. Having regular access to good quality nutritious food is so important to the charities and community groups we support. By coming together we can continue our mission to fight hunger and tackle waste.”

The James Hutton Institute conducts innovative and multidisciplinary science with national and global impacts on a variety of crops including potato.