Potato News from Northern America

Shearer's Foods has opened its 17th manufacturing facility and fourth in Ohio. The new Moraine plant, built in a former General Motors facility, will produce variety packs, create hundreds of jobs, and expand the company's snack production capacity.

The Potato Association of America (PAA) concluded its 110th Annual Meeting in New Orleans with the installation of its 2026-2027 Board of Directors, recognition of Honorary Life Members and the announcement of the 2027 meeting in Minneapolis.

North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission and Rootsii are developing a first-of-its-kind sweetpotato milk from surplus crops. Backed by USD 1.82 million funding, the sustainable dairy alternative aims to reduce waste and create new markets for growers.

Renaissance BioScience has secured Genome BC funding to develop a yeast-based RNAi biopesticide targeting wireworms. The project aims to extend the company's RNAi platform to soil-dwelling pests, offering a potential new tool for potato growers.

Intersnack’s proposed partnership with Utz could influence the potato-chip sector, but no changes to potato sourcing, supplier contracts or processing capacity have been announced. Utz’s manufacturing plans disclosed before the deal remain unchanged.

Intersnack Group has agreed to acquire Utz Brands in a deal valued at about USD 2.9 billion. The acquisition will give Intersnack its first major presence in the US snack market, subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals.

Four United States chefs ranked Arby's curly fries as the best fast-food fries, citing their crispy texture, seasoning and consistency. McDonald's and Rally's/Checkers finished second, while the chefs also shared their favourite dipping sauces.

Lamb Weston reported higher fiscal 2026 net sales driven by volume growth in North America, while profit declined amid pricing pressure and higher costs. The company highlighted cost savings initiatives and issued financial guidance for fiscal 2027.

Cellar Insights launched the Rotten Potato Data Project, inviting Canadian growers to share historical potato storage spoilage data. The project uses machine learning to improve early warning for rot and storage losses while paying participants.

Global seed potato trade is entering a new biosecurity era as countries tighten phytosanitary rules, expand digital ePhyto certification, and strengthen disease testing, making certified, traceable seed essential for global market access.

Potato starch is expanding beyond food as demand grows for clean-label ingredients and sustainable materials. New applications in pharmaceuticals, paper, textiles, adhesives, and biodegradable packaging are creating global market opportunities.

McCain Foods launches a Ceres AI-supported grower pilot program to improve field visibility and decision-making. The AI solution helps potato growers optimize scouting, coordination, and in-season crop management.

Agristo has officially broken ground on its new potato processing facility in Grand Forks, North Dakota. The project is expected to create 300–350 jobs, process 275,000 tons of potatoes annually, and begin production in fall 2029.

A taste test of six frozen sweet potato fry brands ranked Alexia as the best overall for flavor and texture, Ore-Ida as the crispiest, and Sprouts as the top honorable mention, highlighting top picks for burgers, sandwiches, and more.

SAI Platform launched its Regenerating Together Programme during the 2026 Annual Event, bringing together industry partners to advance regenerative agriculture through practical implementation, collaboration and resilient production systems.

Agristo has joined the Potato Sustainability Alliance (PSA) as a Processor Member, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable potato production. The move supports industry collaboration as Agristo expands its first U.S. processing facility.

Global demand for frozen French fries grow steadily in 2026 driven by QSR expansion, retail frozen food sales and convenience trends. Rising consumption supports processing potato demand despite supply volatility, higher costs and climate risks.

Pringles launched limited-edition Pop Dog Buns, potato-based hot dog buns inspired by Sour Cream & Onion, BBQ and Honey Mustard crisps. The buns will be offered free with a Pringles Three-Pack on July 8 and July 15, while supplies last.