Lüneburg heathland potatoes
Potato growing has a long tradition in Lüneburg Heath. The region has been the largest and most famous potato growing area in Germany since the middle of the 19th century. In 2010, the "Lüneburg heathland potato" was registered by the European Commission as having "protected geographical indication" and thus enjoys European-wide protection. Lüneburg heathland potatoes thus have the same origin protection as Lüneburg Heidschnucke sheep.
Heathland specialities with special status
Heathland potatoes, which can show EU provenance, can only be cultivated in the districts of Celle, Gifhorn, Harburg, Lüchow-Dannenberg, Lüneburg (except Amt Neuhaus), Uelzen and Heidekreis or around the town of Visselhövede in the district of Rotenburg (Wümme). They also fulfil the quality characteristics of the "Extra" trade class and the corresponding cooking qualities of "mainly firm-boiling" or "firm-boiling".
Lüneburg heathland potatoes have a pale, smooth skin with flat eyes and yellow flesh. Under the designation they can be marketed as different varieties, such as "Belana", "Gloria", "Princess" or "Linda". They have a wonderful yellow appearance, solid texture and a hearty taste. Heathland potatoes have a national significance among consumers as a tasty regional specialty.