Lukie Pieterse, a former potato farmer turned industry consultant and editor, shares his deep connection to farming and the land. His journey spans from South Africa to Canada, where he faced challenges but maintained hope and resilience. He emphasizes that farming is more than a career; it embodies life lessons about endurance, relationships, and the importance of community. Through Potato News Today, he aims to highlight the human stories behind agriculture, celebrating farmers’ unwavering spirit.
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Optimizing potato storage practises: Key insights await at Potato Storage Day 2025
Potato Storage Day 2025, set for May 21 at Fleet Lodge Farm, Holbeach in the UK, aims to enhance potato storage practices. Organized by Adrian Cunnington and Simon Faulkner, this free half-day event will feature key topics like ventilation, humidity control, sprout prevention, and advances in storage technology. Attendees can also network and learn from industry experts. Registration in advance is encouraged for planning purposes.
Emerging potato diseases around the world: A global look at old and new threats to the potato crop
The potato, cultivated for over 8,000 years, is pivotal to global food security, producing over 359 million tons annually, writes Lukie Pieterse in this comprehensive article. However, it faces severe threats from emerging diseases linked to climate change and intensified agricultural practices, risking economic stability and farmer livelihoods. This article examines these challenges and the innovative strategies needed to protect this essential crop, emphasizing genetic resilience, integrated pest management, advanced diagnostics, and effective policies to secure the potato’s future.
Syngenta launches all-new digital agronomy Portal for farmers and agronomists
The Syngenta Portal provides farmers real-time weather data and digital crop management tools via a smartphone and tablet app. It integrates with the Partnership Plan, offering agronomy recommendations and exclusive rewards. Key features include the BlightCast model for blight risk warnings, QUANTIS Heat Stress tool for root crops, and the BYDV Assist tool. The app optimizes spraying and delivers detailed weather insights, aiding timely agronomy decisions.
The Future of Food: Why potatoes hold the key to global food security and sustainability
This article by Lukie Pieterse is part of a multi-part series on the role of potatoes in global food security, sustainability, and economic development. It highlights the vital role of potatoes in addressing global food security, sustainability, and economic development. The article emphasizes the potato’s vital role in addressing global food security amidst climate change. It highlights potatoes’ adaptability to diverse climates, low resource requirements, and nutritional value, making them a suitable alternative to traditional staples like wheat and rice.
Richard Clark bids farewell after three decades of shaping Branston’s potato supply success
Richard Clark, Commercial Director at Branston, is retiring after over thirty years in the potato supply industry. Joining in 1989 as a trader, he advanced through various roles, contributing significantly to the company’s growth and fostering valuable industry relationships. His legacy emphasizes teamwork and career opportunities within the sector. Branston aims to build on his achievements while developing future talent in the industry.
Rethinking potatoes: Greenvale and Great British Chefs launch campaign to modernise consumer choices
Greenvale, a leading UK potato supplier, has launched the “Move Over Maris” campaign through its Golden Kings brand to address consumer awareness regarding potato varieties. The initiative promotes newer, climate-friendly potato types that require fewer resources and offer better yields. Partnering with Great British Chefs, the campaign aims to educate shoppers on the importance of supporting sustainable agriculture while enjoying innovative dishes made from these varieties.
A new era for fresh potatoes in the UK: FPSA transitions into GB Potatoes Fresh Sector Consultation Group
The Fresh Potato Suppliers Association in the UK, established in 2009, aimed to unite fresh packers to address sector challenges. In 2025, it transitioned into the Fresh Sector Consultation Group (FSCG) under GB Potatoes to enhance representation. The FSCG will develop initiatives and address industry-wide issues collaboratively, ensuring all interests in the fresh potato supply chain are represented. GB Potatoes fosters collaboration for a sustainable potato industry future.
Pulsemaster’s Pulsed Electric Field Technology to shine at SNAXPO25 in Orlando
Pulsemaster, a leader in Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) technology, plans to showcase its innovative PEF processing systems at SNAXPO25. This technology enhances efficiency, reduces waste, and improves the quality of snacks like French fries and chips. PEF processing allows better raw material utilization, lower oil absorption, and increased sustainability, meeting the growing consumer demand for healthier, high-quality snack products. Pulsemaster aims to expand its global footprint in the snack industry.
‘Breaking the ice’: How scientists and farmers are transforming agriculture in Northern Canada
In Northern Canada, researchers led by Dr. Julia Wheeler from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada are revolutionizing cold-climate agriculture to enhance food security. They focus on making staple crops like potatoes and green beans viable amid short growing seasons and complex supply chains. Their innovative season-extension technologies, combined with collaboration from local farmers, aim to build resilient food systems in these challenging environments, ultimately fostering community independence.
Three proven strategies for retailers to promote America’s favorite vegetable, potatoes, in 2025
Potatoes are a key asset for retailers, significantly increasing basket sizes and shopper loyalty as America’s leading vegetable. With average baskets containing potatoes totaling $97.57, effective merchandising can further boost sales. Strategies include creating eye-catching displays, promoting diverse varieties, offering meal solutions, and emphasizing nutritional benefits. Engaging marketing can inspire shoppers and enhance overall retail performance in 2025, transforming potatoes into a sales powerhouse.
New research uncovers complexities in diagnosing phosphorus deficiency in field-grown potatoes
A study in Frontiers in Plant Science shows that diagnosing phosphorus deficiency in field-grown potatoes is more complex than previously believed. Phosphorus levels vary with leaf age and environmental conditions like light stress, challenging the reliability of standard testing methods. Improved diagnostic techniques, including multi-leaf sampling and proper light conditions, are essential for accurate phosphorus management and optimizing potato production.
National Ag Day: Celebrating the hands that feed and sustain billions around the world
National Agriculture Day, observed on March 18 in the U.S., celebrates the critical role of agriculture in society, emphasizing its contribution to food, economy, and job creation, as Lukie Pieterse writes in this tribute article. It highlights the collaboration among farmers, agribusiness, and researchers. The 2025 theme “Agriculture: Together We Grow” promotes cooperation in addressing challenges like climate change and labor shortages.
Ukraine’s GRIMME partner Agrolines LLC: A beacon of resilience for Ukraine’s potato farmers amidst war
Agrolines LLC, led by Dmytro Levichev, plays a vital role in supporting Ukraine’s potato and vegetable farmers amid ongoing war challenge, writes Lukie Pieterse in this article, based on an exclusive interview with Dmytro Levichev. As the official representative of the GRIMME Group, Agrolines provides essential agricultural machinery and expertise. Despite a workforce reduction and market losses due to the invasion, the company continues to aid farmers in sustaining food security, showcasing resilience and commitment to revitalizing Ukraine’s agricultural sector for the future.