Potato News

Belgian potato exporters are targeting UK demand for premium convenience foods. Innovative frozen, fresh-processed and airfryer-friendly products, alongside private-label expertise, are creating growth opportunities as domestic supply falls short.

Bikanervala Foods will invest INR 131 crore to expand its Jewar facility, adding 19,676.39 sqm of built-up area. Total investment will reach INR 548 crore, boosting production to meet rising demand for traditional Indian snacks.

JADCO has completed its French fries production line expansion in Saudi Arabia, increasing production capacity by 50%. The project included new technologies and process upgrades, with Kiremko and other partners supporting delivery.

Shandong Sensitar showcased its automated potato processing solutions at AGROPRODMASH 2026 in Russia, featuring french fries, potato chips and potato flakes production lines. The company engaged Russian manufacturers to explore future partnerships.

Sormac has appointed Tys van Elk as its new Managing Director, effective December 31, 2026, succeeding Bert Haffmans after more than 23 years of leadership. Haffmans will remain involved as an advisor and shareholder.

Haith will conclude its 2026 exhibition calendar at INTERPOM in Belgium, November 29–December 1. The company will highlight its partnership with GRIMME, integrated potato handling solutions, and potential innovations planned for launch in early 2027.

Tasteful Selections showcased Crispy Potato Bites in Garlic Herb, Buffalo Ranch and Sweet Onion Asiago at Grimmway Produce Group’s Booth 1229 during the IFPA Global Produce & Floral Show, highlighting convenient, crispy fresh potato options.

Europatat Congress 2027 will take place in Lisbon, Portugal, from 2–4 June, celebrating Europatat’s 75th anniversary. Co-organised with Porbatata, the event will feature a conference, gala dinner, technical visits and sponsorship opportunities.

Kazakhstan and Belgium have signed a memorandum to develop potato processing, modernise cultivation and attract investment. With the 2026 harvest forecast at 2.8 million tonnes, Kazakhstan aims to expand exports of higher-value potato products.

Europatat welcomes GPK Agrohellas as its first-ever member from Greece. Specialising in certified seed potatoes since 1999, the company supplies Greek growers with varieties for table potatoes, fries and crisps.

PAPAS researchers spotlight Idaho’s pale cyst nematode challenge in AGDAILY, highlighting trap crops, biofumigation, resistant varieties, and integrated strategies to advance eradication and protect potato production.

Backbone and Polysense partner to connect real-time production data with AI-driven quality management, helping food manufacturers improve safety, reduce waste, increase yields, and make faster, data-driven decisions.

Royal HZPC Group has patented a potato innovation with increased levels of natural antioxidants, particularly kaempferol, while retaining traditional flesh colour. The development could benefit both fresh and processed potato markets.

Potato exports from India reached USD 449.6 million across six categories in 2025. Global Potato Summit 2026, scheduled for December 16–17 in Gujarat, will focus on processing, international trade and new export opportunities.

Urschel and KRONEN will showcase integrated processing solutions at Pack Expo International 2026, including the Sprint 2 Dicer and HEWA 3800 PLUS, alongside cutting, washing, drying and produce processing equipment.

McCain Foods Canada has launched Air Fryer Thin Crisps and Tater Crisps, offering restaurant-style crispiness in 9–10 minutes. The launch includes a Fryjacking marketing campaign and promotional events at Ontario universities.

Urschel Laboratories appointed Tim Crammer as President, effective October 12, 2026. Formerly a senior executive at Henny Penny Corporation, Crammer will work alongside CEO Rick Urschel to strengthen leadership and support the company's future growth.

New Zealand successfully delivered its first container of fresh potatoes to Taiwan in August 2026 after securing phytosanitary market access. The shipment opens opportunities to diversify exports and strengthen long-term prospects for potato growers.