Nieuws uit Europa

Verbruggen Palletizing Solutions, a specialist in automated palletizing systems, has introduced the next generation Verbruggen Topframe for modern end-of-line operations.

A first-of-its-kind low carbon concept farm in Lincolnshire has successfully grown its first crop of highly sustainable potatoes that will land in UK stores this week, thanks to a partnership between retailer Tesco and industry leader Branston.

The Snack Science Hub will return as a central knowledge platform during SNACKEX 2026, taking place on 17–18 June 2026 at FIL – Feira Internacional de Lisboa in Lisbon, Portugal.

Scotts Precision Manufacturing is investing in a new 600sqm logistics and assembly facility, due summer 2026, to increase capacity, improve efficiency and lead times, and support growth into new crops, markets, and international projects.

Branston South West GM Jonathan Taylor will retire in March 2026 after nearly a decade leading major growth and £9m upgrades at Ilminster. Simon Jones, a long-serving operations leader, takes over to drive capacity, sustainability and innovation.

Europatat has opened registrations for its annual Europatat Congress, which will take place in Brussels, Belgium, on 3 and 4 June 2026. The event brings together members of the European potato community for the Association’s yearly gathering.

Albert Bartlett partners with Kate Hardcastle MBE to revive Britain’s love of potatoes. Their ‘Make Mealtimes Matter’ campaign promotes spuds as affordable, nutritious staples amid rising living costs.

Elea Technology, the global leader in Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) processing systems, welcomes the recent decision of the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit concerning United States Patent No. 6,821,540.

Parlamento europeo da el visto bueno a garantías adicionales frente a Mercosur para productos sensibles como la carne de ave o de vacuno. Umbrales estrictos para la activación del mecanismo de salvaguarda.

92% of farmers say their sustainability efforts go unrecognised, despite adopting an average of eight eco-friendly practices. While 85% would do more with financial support, low trust in government and policy confusion remain key barriers.

Heat and Control will return to Interpack 2026 with a strong focus on helping food manufacturers improve process efficiency, reduce energy and water consumption, and maintain consistent throughput and product quality.

Latest potato free-buy prices have fallen to less than half their level a year ago, with Potato Call quoting the best Maris Piper at GBP 180 per tonne compared with GBP 400 per tonne for similar potatoes last season.

Aviko, one of the leading suppliers and brands in potato products in Europe, has acquired the remaining 75% of the shares in Eurofrits, making the Spanish producer of frozen potato products and snacks a full member of the Aviko group.

Key Technology (Key), a member of Duravant’s Food Sorting and Handling Group, introduced its new automatic defect removal system for potato strips – ADR X – at Interpack in Hall 6 / B73.

European farmers are protesting over falling prices caused by a large harvest, reduced demand for frozen French fries following U.S. tariffs, and rising competition from countries such as China and India, putting profitability at risk and potentially reducing planting areas.

Pomuni Frozen has been re-awarded "Factory of the Future" status by Agoria and Sirris, recognizing its digitalisation, efficient production, and sustainable, future-ready manufacturing operations.

As food manufacturers face ongoing labour shortages, rising costs, and increasing performance demands, TNA Solutions will bring a clear focus to interpack 2026 (7–13 May, Messe Düsseldorf): Innovation simplified.

Polish potato processor MK Agro has expanded its production capabilities and improved product consistency by investing in advanced peeling technology supplied by Finnish food processing technology provider Forsfood Oy.