Leading article: Spud we like
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The potato was introduced relatively late to European diets, but it was embraced with enthusiasm. It is now the fourth largest staple crop on the planet after rice, wheat and maize. And from the Irish potato famine, to the row about "Freedom Fries" during the build- up to the Iraq war, they have been entwined with our history. And now a new chapter in the life of the plant might have begun with the news that scientists have deciphered the full genetic code of the potato. Advances in crop technology have enabled mankind to avoid the Malthusian nightmare of too many hungry mouths and not enough food in the past. Here's hoping that the potato is about to help us do so yet again.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments