News on Food Trends from Oceania

Wyma Solutions, a global leader in post‑harvest processing and water treatment solutions for fresh produce, has announced the launch of the Micron Filter XL at Hort Connections 2026, taking place from 1–4 June at the Adelaide Convention Centre.

A new grower-led industry body, Potatoes Tasmania, has been established, marking a significant step toward strengthening coordination, productivity and long-term sustainability across the state’s potato sector.

New Zealand potato growers are focusing on turning higher yields into greater value as they navigate fluctuating markets, rising costs, and increasing climate pressures, according to Potatoes New Zealand Chief Executive Kate Trufitt.

Weather agencies and climate scientists have pointed to the possibility of an El Niño forming in the Pacific Ocean later this year – a phenomenon that could push global temperatures to all-time record highs in 2027.

PepsiCo has acquired Australian seed potato business Dowling AgriTech (DAT) to strengthen seed supply, drive innovation, and support grower partnerships across the Asia-Pacific region.

Australia faces a potato shortage after its toughest season in a decade. Extreme weather in South Australia, the nation’s main potato region, cut yields, causing supermarket shortages. Mitolo Family Farms cites heat, cold, and drought as main factors.

French fries are part of a booming USD 18 billion sector, projected to reach USD 24 billion by decade’s end. Plant & Food Research, part of the Bioeconomy Science Institute, has been recognised for creating a new potato variety tailored to this market.

Hungritos showcased innovative potato snacks at Fine Food Australia 2025, Sydney, Sept 8‑11. The highlight was the launch of crispy criss-cross Waffle Fries, attracting global interest and boosting partnerships for future snack innovations.

Hungritos, a leader in potato-based frozen snacks, has announced the launch of its all-new Waffle Fries, a product set to redefine snacking with premium quality, taste, and texture.

A popular potato chip brand has been pulled from the shelves of Australia’s two biggest supermarket chains after being discontinued. Fans have noticed that the entire Tyrrells range has quietly disappeared from Coles and Woolworths stores.

In recognition of World Food Safety Day on June 7, TNA Solutions has presented a timely expert blog titled “Engineering Better Food Safety” by Steve Burgess, General Manager – Europe & Africa at TNA Solutions.

On April 11, 45 potato growers and industry stakeholders gathered near Pemberton for a high-tech field event coordinated by PotatoLink and the Potato Growers Association of WA.

HyFun Foods, a prominent player in the frozen food industry, has announced a partnership with Woolworths, Australia’s largest retail chain. 

As part of its drive to continue to bring innovative technology solutions to the food industry, TNA Solutions has launched an immersive, interactive digital service, the tna intelli-assist TM , to deliver high-impact projects with minimal risks – all while staying on budget.

The recent study by McCain on potato production in New Zealand, following a regenerative agriculture approach, presents promising results for the future implementation of these practices.

What a day it was on Monday, June 24! The Adelaide Convention Centre was packed with over 900 delegates, all excited to hear from leaders and innovators of the global potato industry.

Potatoes Australia Ltd took great pride in hosting the 12th World Potato Congress 2024. Potatoes Australia Ltd. Chairman Dr. Nigel Crump and Potatoes Australia Ltd. Executive Officer, Sonia Waterson welcomed guests to the event for the official opening.

The countdown to the World Potato Congress 2024 has begun and the excitement is building. The team is working hard behind the scenes to ensure the 2024 Congress is one to remember, with a number of exciting announcements.