Carbohydrates. They're enemy number one in so many diets floating around, and potatoes - a nutrient-rich crop and vital food source for the planet - are full of them. 

T&G executive general manager, Andrew Keaney (right) with Ministry of Primary Industries Director General Martyn Dunne.

New Zealand-based produce company T&G however has deftly adapted to this dietary trend with a low-carb cultivar branded as "Lotatoes", which were given the Ministry for Primary Industries Primary Sector Products Award at the 2017 New Zealand Food Awards.

The product fended off four other food innovators to be crowned with the prize, which promotes, recognizes and showcases amazing innovations in primary sector products, processing and packaging methods.

Judges were reportedly particularly impressed with the process used to naturally breed and sustainably grow the lower carb and fewer calorie potato that has taken New Zealand by storm.

"Lotatoes™ is a high quality and delicious potato, sustainably grown right here in New Zealand by passionate farmers loved by kiwi consumers. We’re extremely proud of Lotatoes™ win at the 2017 New Zealand Food Awards," T&G executive general manager Andrew Keaney said in a release.

"Having judges recognise Lotatoes™ confirms we’re is on the right track with innovation, which in the produce industry takes a long time, so hats off to the dedicated teams from T&G and our growing partners Balle Brother and Masters Produce for getting Lotatoes™ from the soil to the supermarket shelves."

The top-notch potato, with 40% less carbs and fewer calories than other potato varieties, was developed by cross-breeding different varieties of potato seeds together. 

Those seeds have a shorter, more sustainable, growth cycle using less water than traditional spuds, which the company claimed made them better for the environment. 

"Lotatoes™ were five years in the making, so getting them into stores was a massive achievement for everyone involved," said T&G marketing manager Michelle Singh.

Singh said winning the award was recognition for the efforts of the entire team, from passionate growers, growing and nurturing the plants through to supply chain, marketing and sales.

"Being recognised by the New Zealand Food Awards is a credit to the work of all of our passionate people, who ensure Lotatoes™ had both the health credentials consumers wanted and the great potato taste they love," Singh said.

"It's also validation that what we are doing what’s right environmentally - so we’re very proud to be receiving this award and the judge’s recognition for both innovation and sustainability," she said.

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