Kiremko has launched the CORDA Invicta Fryer with Integrated EcoMiser in partnership with REYCO Systems, revolutionizing industrial frying technology. This system boosts efficiency, processing over 30 tons of fried products per hour while cutting oil usage by up to 30%. With advanced oil recovery and a focus on sustainability, the fryer ensures quality and compliance, positioning food manufacturers for success in a competitive market.
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‘NextGen Potatoes’: Technology as a resilience enabler – smarter tools for smarter farming
Potato growers are facing a challenging era marked by climate fluctuations, rising costs, and stringent consumer demands for sustainability and traceability, writes Lukie Pieterse in this article. To adapt, the industry is increasingly adopting technology like precision agriculture, predictive analytics, smart storage, and automation. These innovations not only enhance efficiency but also foster resilience, enabling farmers to make informed decisions, reduce losses, and improve market access. Ensuring equitable access to these tools is essential for all growers to thrive.
‘Breeding for Tomorrow’: The genetic backbone of resilient potatoes
The integration of advanced technologies in potato breeding has significantly accelerated innovation, writes Lukie Pieterse in this article. Key advancements include marker-assisted selection (MAS) for disease resistance, genomic selection for predicting success, CRISPR/Cas9 for precise gene editing, and cisgenics for trait stacking, he says. However, the unequal distribution of these technologies poses challenges, particularly for developing countries. Enhancing access through strengthened public institutions, partnerships, and equitable seed systems is crucial for achieving breeding success.
Future-proofing potatoes: How breeding, technology, and grower innovation are reshaping the industry
The global potato industry faces significant challenges due to climate change, supply chain issues, and evolving consumer demands, threatening its future, as Lukie Pieterse points out in this article. To build resilience, five pillars are essential: innovative breeding, advanced technology, farmer-driven adaptation, global knowledge exchange, and supportive ecosystems. Collaborative efforts are crucial among breeders, farmers, and policymakers.
Nematodes in potato fields: The silent yield killer – new insights into control strategies
Plant-parasitic nematodes, which cause significant damage to potato crops globally, result in estimated annual losses of $78 billion, writes Lukie Pieterse in this article. They infiltrate plant roots, leading to yield reductions sometimes exceeding 80%. Various species, such as the potato cyst nematode and root-knot nematode, pose substantial threats. Innovative control strategies, including biological control agents, trap cropping, and integrated pest management, are emerging to combat this issue and secure potato production for the future.
Canada: Manitoba potato industry fears big losses as processing companies cut orders
The Manitoba potato industry faces significant challenges as seed producers contend with slashed orders from major buyers McCain Foods and J.R. Simplot. Mark Peters, a potato grower, notes that larger seed growers could incur losses exceeding $1 million due to reduced contracts. The news shocked many in the industry, who were initially optimistic about the season. The situation highlights the vulnerability of local producers.
Organic potato starch and flour: A market poised for growth
Organic potato starch and flour are gaining prominence in the agricultural market, driven by consumer trends such as the clean-label movement, gluten-free diets, and sustainability. As Lukie Pieterse writes in this article, these products are versatile, serving functions beyond food, including in pharmaceuticals and bioplastics. The organic market, valued at USD 4.5 billion for starch and USD 650 million for flour, is projected for significant growth.
Resistance management: Are we losing the battle against fungicides and insecticides?
Potatoes, vital for global agriculture, face a crisis due to resistance against fumigants and insecticides, leading to declining effectiveness and rising costs for farmers, writes Lukie Pieterse in this article. Overuse exacerbates resistance, as pests and pathogens evolve, threatening yields and sustainability. Urgent adaptation is necessary, involving proactive resistance management through diverse strategies, innovative agricultural practices, and effective collaboration. The future depends on transforming reliance on chemicals into sustainable solutions.
‘Farming the sun’: A smarter energy solution for South African farmers as they battle soaring electricity prices
Rising electricity costs and unreliable power supply are pressuring South African farmers. Many are adopting solar energy as a strategic solution to ensure cost savings and energy security. The Performance Linked Instalment Sale (PLIS) model offers farmers ownership without upfront costs, aligning payments with energy generation. Successful case studies demonstrate significant savings and tax benefits, making solar a viable option for agricultural independence and sustainability.
Private sector organisations launch new Sustainable Markets Initiative project with an ambition to scale regenerative farming globally
The ‘Routes to Regen’ project, launched by the Sustainable Markets Initiative, aims to promote regenerative farming in the UK by providing a simplified support framework for farmers. Scheduled for 2025, it focuses on addressing economic risks and fragmented assistance that hinder adoption. Key industry players will collaborate, offering financial, technical, and peer support, and the project seeks to model effective cross-sector partnerships for sustainable agriculture globally.
Enhancing potato yields: The synergistic effect of biochar and organic fertilizer
A new study highlights the potential of combining biochar and organic fertilizers to improve soil health in potato farming. Conducted by researchers led by Jianwei Hou, findings reveal that these amendments enhance soil fertility and microbial diversity, crucial for sustainable agriculture. Specifically, the 1:2 ratio of biochar to organic fertilizer yielded significant improvements. This approach offers farmers a practical strategy for higher yields and resilience against soil degradation and climate challenges.
‘Sky-high spuds’: How drones are transforming potato farming worldwide
Drones are transforming potato agriculture globally, providing advanced data for soil health and disease management, enhancing yields, and reducing costs, writes Lukie PIeterse in this article. In various regions, like Idaho and the Netherlands, Australia and India, drones assist in precision irrigation, pest detection, and resource efficiency. This technology greatly benefits farmers by allowing real-time insights, ultimately improving productivity and sustainability.
Healthycrop and Haggard Stores unite to deliver fungal-resistant potatoes for a sustainable future
Healthycrop and Haggard Stores Limited have formed a strategic partnership to develop fungal-resistant potatoes, enhancing agricultural sustainability. This collaboration combines Healthycrop’s plant science and Haggard Stores’ agronomy expertise to empower farmers with healthier, more resilient crops, reducing reliance on chemical treatments. The initiative aims to secure food production and improve yields, addressing the significant financial impact fungal diseases have on potato farmers and promoting sustainable practices worldwide.
The potato seed’s promise: Planting faith in a fragile tomorrow
This article by Lukie Pieterse reflects on the profound act of planting potatoes, symbolizing faith and resilience among farmers. It highlights the moments of doubt and hope preceding the planting, as well as stories from various farmers who share their connections to the land and the significance of sowing seeds for future generations. In an uncertain world, the act of planting potatoes represents a commitment to possibility and a quiet rebellion against despair, emphasizing belief, even amidst challenges.