Potato News from Europe

Elea Technology, the global leader in Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) processing systems, welcomes the recent decision of the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit concerning United States Patent No. 6,821,540.

Parlamento europeo da el visto bueno a garantías adicionales frente a Mercosur para productos sensibles como la carne de ave o de vacuno. Umbrales estrictos para la activación del mecanismo de salvaguarda.

92% of farmers say their sustainability efforts go unrecognised, despite adopting an average of eight eco-friendly practices. While 85% would do more with financial support, low trust in government and policy confusion remain key barriers.

Heat and Control will return to Interpack 2026 with a strong focus on helping food manufacturers improve process efficiency, reduce energy and water consumption, and maintain consistent throughput and product quality.

Latest potato free-buy prices have fallen to less than half their level a year ago, with Potato Call quoting the best Maris Piper at GBP 180 per tonne compared with GBP 400 per tonne for similar potatoes last season.

Aviko, one of the leading suppliers and brands in potato products in Europe, has acquired the remaining 75% of the shares in Eurofrits, making the Spanish producer of frozen potato products and snacks a full member of the Aviko group.

Key Technology (Key), a member of Duravant’s Food Sorting and Handling Group, introduced its new automatic defect removal system for potato strips – ADR X – at Interpack in Hall 6 / B73.

European farmers are protesting over falling prices caused by a large harvest, reduced demand for frozen French fries following U.S. tariffs, and rising competition from countries such as China and India, putting profitability at risk and potentially reducing planting areas.

Pomuni Frozen has been re-awarded "Factory of the Future" status by Agoria and Sirris, recognizing its digitalisation, efficient production, and sustainable, future-ready manufacturing operations.

As food manufacturers face ongoing labour shortages, rising costs, and increasing performance demands, TNA Solutions will bring a clear focus to interpack 2026 (7–13 May, Messe Düsseldorf): Innovation simplified.

Polish potato processor MK Agro has expanded its production capabilities and improved product consistency by investing in advanced peeling technology supplied by Finnish food processing technology provider Forsfood Oy.

Los agricultores galos se encuentran en alerta tras el recorte a los precios de los contratos de producción para industria los cuales trasladan más riesgos a su operativa.

At Fruit Logistica 2026, FAM STUMABO showcased how it partners with fruit, vegetable, and potato processors to help them navigate labor scarcity, rising processing complexity, and tighter quality expectations.

Around 500 guests from 15 countries attended the 20th International Berlin Potato Evening hosted by DKHV at TITANIC Chaussee Berlin, uniting heads from the potato value chain, science, politics to discuss market challenges and policy fair rules.

Royal HZPC Group has finalized the acquisition of IPM Potato Group, following the initial announcement made in October 2025. With all required conditions now fulfilled, IPM officially becomes part of Royal HZPC Group.

Germans consume an average of 63 kg of potatoes per person each year, according to official statistics. However, an exceptional surplus from the most recent harvest has overwhelmed even Germany's traditionally strong demand for the crop.

'Maris Piper has had its day; or has it?' That was the provocative title of a GB Potatoes debate at the British Potato Industry Event, where industry leaders discussed whether the long-standing variety still has a place in modern potato production.

McCain Foods, the UK largest manufacturer of prepared potato products, has announced plans to launch a new Farm of the Future in North Yorkshire, home of McCain GB headquarters for more than 50 years.