News on Food Trends from the Americas

P.E.I. potato farmers face major crop losses as drought grips the island. With only 10% irrigated land, yields are falling below average. Farmers like Andrew Lawless expect 30% losses, warning climate change demands urgent investment in irrigation.

Renaissance BioScience Corp. secured an Australian patent on Sept 4, 2025, for its yeast-based RNA platform, targeting the Colorado Potato Beetle with eco-friendly biopesticides. It also eyes animal and human health markets.

Kraft Heinz will split into two tax-free, independent public companies: Global Taste Elevation Co. and North American Grocery Co. Goal: simplify structure, boost focus, drive growth, and unlock shareholder value. Deal expected in 2026.

TNA Solutions will showcase the tna conti-pro PEL 3 fryer and integrated systems at PACK EXPO Las Vegas 2025, booth W‑2350, offering efficient pellet/extruded snack frying, seamless distribution, automated packaging, and less waste.

Chick-fil-A launches new menu items Aug. 18, including the Pretzel Cheddar Club Sandwich, Cherry Berry beverages, and Waffle Potato Chips in Original and Chick-fil-A Sauce flavors, available as a side, snack, or retail bag in select locations.

Chef Catherine McCord teams up with McCain® Foods this back-to-school season to make mealtime easier and more joyful. McCain® Smiles—crispy, fun potato sides ready in under 10 minutes—bring families together with simple recipes and shared smiles.

Potatoes are the main vegetable crop in Uruguay, where production volume (20% of total vegetables), level of consumption (30 kg/inhabitant/year), and nutritional benefits make potatoes a staple food that contributes to food security.

Mashed potatoes top America’s comfort list, but a YouGov survey for National Potato Day reveals regional and generational favorites: rural areas love potato salad, urban areas prefer gnocchi/poutine, Boomers stick to classics, Gen Z tries tacos.

A Canadian study shows regenerative practices in potato farming boost soil health, yields and carbon capture. Trials found plant diversity raises marketable yield and resilience without more diseases, supporting long term farm viability

PACK EXPO Las Vegas 2025, held from September 29 till October 1, brings 35,000+ packaging and processing pros, 2,300 exhibitors, and unmatched networking. It’s the premier hub for innovation, connections, and industry growth.

Zapp’s® launches Bayou Blackened Ranch Kettle Chips, blending Cajun-style blackened seasoning with zesty ranch for a bold Louisiana taste. Available in 1.5, 2.5, and 8 oz bags nationwide and online, delivering the brand’s signature crunch and flavor.

KFC’s Potato Wedges and Hot & Spicy Wings return nationwide Aug 18 by popular demand. Enjoy wedges alone, sides, or in a new wings & wedges combo. Plus, get deals like USD 3.99 chicken sandwich and USD 20 fan box. Available while supplies last.

NPC invites proposals for Potato Expo 2026 sessions on innovation, tech, trends & collaboration. Formats: 20–40 min talks or panels. Submit by Sept 12; notifications by Oct 10. Topics: production, trade, tech, research, policy & more.

The University of Manitoba has named Dr. Linda Schott as the first UM Research Chair in Potato Sustainability, a key role focused on educating students and promoting innovation and sustainability in Manitoba’s growing potato industry.

La canadiense McCain celebra 30 años en Argentina. Lidera el mercado de papas prefritas y apunta a crecer en el consumo hogareño y nuevos destinos. En el país se consumen 100.000 toneladas anuales de papas congeladas, el 80% destinadas a gastronomía.

Un análisis genómico realizado por un equipo internacional identificó este evento de hibridación natural entre especies andinas. La papa tendría su origen en el tomate.

A study reveals that potatoes originated from a hybridisation event 9 million years ago in the Andes, when tomato ancestors crossed with Etuberosum plants. This allowed potatoes to form tubers, leading to the diverse species we rely on today.

Regulations on food safety, labour scarcity, and environmental pressures are driving the need for smarter, more sustainable solutions. Waste doesn’t just affect visual quality. It disrupts automation, clogs up machines, and costs money.