The Belgian potato chip will be in the spotlight for the 12th edition of 'Fries Week', taking place from 8 to 15 November, under the initiative of the Walloon Ministry of Agriculture.
"It is important to take a week each year to highlight this heritage so typical of our region, a heritage that is so beneficial," stated Bernard Lefèvre, president of UNAFRI (National Union of Chip Shop Owners), during a press conference on Tuesday.
Throughout the week, several video clips will be shared on social media to honour chips, chip shop owners, and farmers. A competition will also be held to select four winners who will receive a year’s supply of free chips.
Chip shops, or fritkots as they are known in Brussels, are an integral part of the Belgian culinary landscape. They are the most visited hospitality businesses in the country, according to Philippe Mattart, Director General of the Walloon Agency for the Promotion of Quality Agriculture. In 2024, one in five French-speaking Belgians reported visiting a chip shop once a week.
During Chip Week, emphasis will also be placed on the local production of potatoes. Wallonia boasts over 4,000 producers, nearly 45,000 hectares of land, and a production of approximately 4.5 million tonnes per year.
Belgian radio presenter David Antoine is the sponsor of this 12th edition and will appear in several videos throughout the week. The videos will feature portraits of chip shop owners, showcases of their expertise, and exciting chip-related challenges.
Visit the website for more information.
