The time when Chile tried to register the potato as a national heritage, but Peru opposed it

Tensions between Peru and Chile have persisted over time, motivated by territorial disputes and cultural rivalries, such as the right to pisco. The controversies not only involved the population, but also reached judicial stages. The potato, recognized as a symbol of Peruvian identity, was also the center of a controversy when Chile tried to register it as part of its heritage. How did this discussion between Peru and Chile about the potato begin? The origin of this controversy arose when a Chilean researcher announced his intention to register as national heritage about 280 varieties of potato discovered on the island of Chiloé. In addition, he stated that there are records indicating that potatoes were consumed in Chile 13,000 years ago, while in Peru the crops date back approximately 8,000 years. These statements did not go unnoticed and generated a rapid reaction from Peruvians, who flatly rejected any idea that questioned Peru as the birthplace of this tuber. Faced with the ...