Potato News from Europe

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.

In Ukraine, demand for niche vegetable crops is growing noticeably, most notably for sweet potatoes and asparagus. These observations were shared in a market review of the magazine 'Gardening in Ukrainian'.

Egyptian sweet potatoes are gaining ground in Europe as demand rises. Short transit times, lower costs, and better storage boost supply. Dutch production struggles with low yields, while growing consumer interest and ready-to-eat trends drive market growth.

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.

Potato Processor Agristo integrates sustainability into operations, using Operational Excellence to improve efficiency and reduce water, energy, and raw material use—turning smarter processes into a more responsible future.

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.

In today’s food processing landscape, relying on outdated freezing methods is no longer just inefficient, it is a direct threat to product quality and profitability. Processors are facing higher energy costs, labour shortages, and greater pressure to maintain consistent product integrity.

xFarm Technologies, a Swiss digital agriculture specialist, will participate in Agritechnica 2025 in Hanover (Nov 9–15). At stand D32, Hall 21, the company will showcase new digital, AI-driven and IoT solutions for smarter, sustainable farming.

As the UK potato industry prepares for BP2025 in Harrogate, Tong Engineering will highlight how its latest handling and automation technologies help growers and processors meet modern demands while preparing for the future.

Around 65 participants, ranging from growers and traders to processors, joined today’s German-language RUCIP Webinar 2025 to learn about the latest updates to the European trade rules for potatoes (RUCIP) and their practical implementation in Germany.

The 2025 table potato storage season emphasizes energy-efficient, quality-focused storage. Using Tolsma Grisnich solutions, smart ventilation, and precise temperature control reduces costs, weight loss, and sprout inhibitor use, boosting yield and profits despite market challenges.

La ministra reclamó incorporar una cláusula de salvaguarda agrícola, además de medidas estrictas para impedir la importación de productos que no cumplan las normas europeas de seguridad sanitaria y protección ambiental.

The European Snacks Association releases its 2025 Sustainability Report, highlighting members’ efforts in resource efficiency, sustainable sourcing, energy savings, and eco-friendly packaging, supporting the EU Green Deal and circular economy initiatives.

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

Potato Demo Day 2026 will be held on 2 September 2026 in Westmaas, focusing on knowledge sharing, innovation, and networking. New highlights include the Startup Square and live demos, alongside key programs like the Young Farmers Program and Knowledge Barn.

Agrico Ukraine’s dream becomes reality! Premium potato varieties Ranomi and Alouette are now available in Silpo, Novus, and Metro stores. A proud milestone powered by teamwork, strong partnerships, and hope for Ukraine.

The FAO Food Price Index (FFPI) averaged 126.4 points in October 2025, down 2.1 points (1.6 percent) from the revised September level of 128.5 points, marking its second consecutive monthly decline.

Tummers Food Processing Solutions and Callens partner to advance the E²E (Emission-to-Energy) concept, aiming for emission-free, fully automated potato processing through sustainable energy, heat integration, and smart steam management.