Onderzoek en ontwikkeling (R&D)

Lamb Weston, HAI, Radboud University and ISPT are advancing potato processing with AI and hyperspectral imaging to boost quality, reduce waste and improve efficiency. Lamb Weston experts say the technology enables consistent supply and faster, deeper quality predictions.

FRUIT LOGISTICA 2026 (4–6 Feb, Berlin) gathers the global fresh produce industry for innovation, networking, and market insights. With 2,500+ exhibitors, expert forums, tech showcases, and the 20th Innovation Award, it drives the future of fresh produce.

The 58th Idaho Potato Conference will be held Jan. 21–22 in Pocatello, featuring panels, research updates, a trade show and sessions on soil-borne diseases, agronomy, storage and water issues. Registration is USD 40 before Jan. 14.

Pakistan and KOICA discussed a feasibility study for a Seed Potato Production Centre at PARC, Islamabad. The project aims to cut seed imports, boost yields with Korean tech like aeroponics, and supply virus-free certified seed to over 100,000 farmers.

Max Koeune, CEO of McCain Foods, joins The Consumer Goods Forum as Co-Chair alongside Tesco’s Ken Murphy, driving global collaboration and innovation. McCain continues its leadership in sustainability, food waste, and industry partnerships.

The global potato starch market is experiencing steady growth, driven by increasing demand across various industries, including food processing, pharmaceuticals, textiles, paper manufacturing, and adhesives.

Robotics, imaging, sensors and data-driven tools will lead fruit and vegetable innovation at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2026. The FRUTIC Science Symposium on 6 February will highlight advances shaping global horticultural production and postharvest management.

SolEdits and Lyckeby have developed CRISPR-edited potatoes with storage-stable starch, removing the need for chemical modification. Once allowed in the EU, this innovation can save 5,000 tonnes of chemicals yearly in Sweden and up to 75,000 across the EU.

A new potato variety, CIP-Asiryq, developed by the International Potato Center and Indigenous farmers in Peru, resists late blight, cuts fungicide use, cooks faster, and boosts farmer income, offering a climate-resilient solution worldwide.

Potato Expo 2026, North America’s largest potato industry event, heads to Dallas Jan. 6–8. Featuring 180 exhibitors, 30+ sessions, and major networking, it unites the global potato supply chain to drive innovation, advocacy, and collaboration.

Plant protection, bureaucracy, and production costs – these are just some of the issues currently weighing heavily on Germany’s specialty crop sector.

Royal HZPC Group posts a strong 2024/25: revenue €525 M (USD 603 M), tonnage 1 M+, net profit €17.1 M (USD 19.8 M). Growers get €10.90 (USD 12.5) dividend. New varieties excel in French‑fry, chips, export and fresh markets, with acreage expected to grow further.

Lethbridge researchers study how heat waves and hail affect potato crops. Dr. Neilson finds timing is key, with storms during tuber growth reducing quality. His work aims to create tools to help farmers assess risks and boost crop resilience.

Calantha, a new RNA-based sprayable pesticide, effectively kills Colorado potato beetles while sparing beneficial insects. Most effective on small larvae, it offers a sustainable, targeted solution to combat resistant crop pests.

Excitement builds as we mark one year to the 13th World Potato Congress, set for Oct 26–30, 2026, at Sawela Lodge, Naivasha, Kenya. Keynotes and registration launch in Nov. Stay tuned for updates and sponsorship opportunities!

'Operación Papita Solidaria': productores mexicanos venden papa directamente al consumidor para evitar intermediarios y garantizar precios justos.

Scientists have decoded the sweetpotato’s complex hexaploid genome, revealing its mixed ancestry and resilience traits. This breakthrough offers powerful tools for breeders to boost yield, nutrition, and climate resistance, securing food futures.

Produce Investments (PI) acquires Biofresh Safestore, a leader in fixed crop management. Combined with Restrain’s natural sprout suppression, the move expands PI’s tech portfolio, offering flexible, innovative storage solutions across Europe and beyond.