Potato News from the Americas

Vanmark, an industrial potato and produce processing equipment manufacturer, announced its new Helix Hydrocutting System, designed to help curly fry producers achieve high volume with maximum results and yield.

As the market leader in frying oil filtration, VITO AG has introduced the new VITO XM Frying Oil Filter - the next evolution of one of its most successful products.

Covered Bridge Potato Chips has reopened in Woodstock, N.B., after a 2024 fire destroyed its Hartland plant. The new site restores jobs and flavours, while Hartland hopes for its return and keeps the old location open as a gift shop and attraction.

Key Technology introduces COMPASS® optical sorter for potato chips at Pack Expo. Belt-fed with easy-to-use interface, it removes defects and foreign material, ensures food safety, boosts efficiency, enables fast cleaning, and offers IIoT analytics.

As a leading grower of fresh potatoes, Wada Farms set out to improve efficiency, enhance product quality, and reduce reliance on manual labor. All while preparing for future growth.

Productores de papa en Sinaloa enfrentan una crisis por el incumplimiento de contratos de la industria, que devolvió volúmenes pactados y saturó las bodegas, provocando caída de precios y desánimo para nuevas siembras.

Tras meses de precios por el suelo, la tendencia continua. Se espera finalmente una recuperación antes de fin de año.

Prince Edward Island researchers are testing the Weed Zapper, an electric tool offering a chemical-free alternative to herbicides. The 2-year study aims to cut costs, limit weed spread, and support sustainable pest management in horticulture crops.

Eastern Oregon potato growers face rising costs as U.S. tariffs hit fertilizer, equipment, and exports. Industry leaders warn of lost markets to China and long-term risks if tariffs persist.

Backer’s Potato Chips upgraded its aging bulk storage system with Vanmark’s six-bin solution, boosting unloading speed, reducing downtime, and cutting maintenance costs—allowing the family business to focus on growth and meeting rising demand.

Romina Broda, CEO of Lamb Weston in Argentina, explains that the decision to build the most modern potato processing plant in Latin America from scratch in the Mar del Plata Industrial Park reflects the company’s commitment to innovation.

Los productores de papa de la Asociación Frutihortícola y Pecuaria de Ybytymí (Paraguarí), que reúne a 205 familias, alertan sobre una plaga que afecta sus cultivos, amenaza la economía campesina y agrava sus deudas.

Idahoan Foods introduces +PROTEIN™ Mashed Potatoes, made with 100% Idaho potatoes and packed with 6g of protein per serving. With 24g per pouch, they offer comfort food that supports nutrition goals while keeping you fuller longer.

The potatoes you pack today define your reputation tomorrow. Customers expect quality, consistency, and on-time deliveries. But can your grading technology keep up?

The Washington-Oregon Potato Conference 2026 will once again unite growers, processors, suppliers, and stakeholders. Known as a premier industry event, it offers innovation, insights, and valuable networking opportunities for the potato sector.

Gary and Alan Hafner have acquired majority ownership of Layton Systems, purchasing shares from Julia Rich. Building on the legacies of John Layton and Jerry Allen-Rich, the Hafners aim to drive growth while upholding the company’s values and mission.

SNAC International, the leading trade association for the snack industry, is proud to announce it will host the 2025 Industry Legal & Regulatory Forum on November 11–12, 2025, in Washington, D.C.

Cellar Insights raised an oversubscribed seed round, co-led by Tall Grass Ventures & Accelerate Fund IV, to scale its AI-powered potato storage tech, preventing spoilage and reducing crop losses across North America.