10/10/07 Energy surcharge in spud processing contract

Washington Ag October 10, 2007 Covering increased production costs has been a goal for the Potato Growers of Washington in contract negotiations with processors this fall. PGW executive director Dale Lathim says there have already been two agreements reached and he hopes to complete other negotiations by month's end. Lathim: "What we did with the first contract we were able to achieve a $240 an acre energy surcharge, because most of all the cost, even the squeeze on the land, can be related back to energy. So the other contracts that are falling into place all seem to be at that approximately $240 up for next year, which is what we think will just cover the cost. So it is not like the growers are going to gain anything but they shouldn't lose any ground either." The potato may have a lot more nutrients beneficial for good health than many Americans give it credit for. A study getting underway at Washington State University will measure some of those benefits such as antioxidants. The research involves feeding participants in the study different recipes made with different colored potatoes once a day for six weeks straight. The participants will then be tested for the strength of their immune systems, anti-inflammatory response and antioxidant levels. The health benefits of white, yellow and purple potatoes will be compared. The research is being funded by the Washington State Potato Commission. I'm Bob Hoff.