In a bid to preserve and enhance the shelf-life of potatoes, Gujarat would soon get its first potato dehydration centre in Palanpur town, having a handling capacity of 500 kg per hour.
The Centre has proposed to come up with an investment of Rs 19.5 crore in Palanpur town of north Gujarat, which accounts for the highest potato output in the state.
“A potato dehydration centre has been planned for Deesa near Palanpur, the potato hub of state. It shall have latest machinery to be imported from overseas (may be Switzerland), which can enhance the shelf-life of potatoes,” Gujarat Agro Industries Corporation (GAIC) Managing Director, Mr N.K. Singh, told PTI.
“The site for the project has been finalised. The construction work shall commence soon after the monsoon,” official sources said.
Dehydrated potato flakes can be used in the place of mashed potatoes. They are functionally like fresh potatoes and could be used for making traditional snacks like samosa, dosa, tikki and parathas, industry experts said.
GAIC is the State Government arm which promotes agricultural activities and fosters the development of agro industries in the state.
The move is expected to ease wastage problems during the time of potato glut.
“If a potato dehydration facility is set up here it will benefit the farmers and shall help them fetch better prices for their produce,” Agriculture Produce Marketing Committee (APMC,) Deesa’s Director, Mr Babu Mali, said.