Published in Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 24 ISSUE 1
Written by Alexandra-Mihaela NAGY, Maria-Mihaela ANTOFIE, Camelia SAVA SAND

Potato has been consumed for more than four centuries in Europe, and during the last century, it was also the subject of modern biotechnology breeding to obtain different varieties with specific uses. Therefore, new potato varieties have been constantly introduced into the marketplace. Up to the beginning of this century, purple-fleshed potatoes (PFPs) were not very common in Europe, nor in Romania. But, due to their significant nutritional importance, an increase in these varieties’ acceptance on the marketplace was observed. While the purple-fleshed potato may offer unique nutritional advantages, challenges may arise in terms of consumer education and acceptance. The scope of this article was to apply a scientific-based questionnaire and to be disseminated with the support of students among the consumers in Sibiu County. A total of 278 answers have been received. Based on the analysis of this survey, it can be concluded that generally, the public is open to accepting different types of potato varieties. However, the need for scientific explanations was considered essential to getting informed answers from all respondents. The most interested in the PFPs seems to be the young generation, most originating from urban or rural areas. Thus, PFPs may have the chance to enter the marketplace in Romania quickly.

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