News By Region

Balancing crop protection and public concern: The role of neonicotinoids in U.S. potato production

Researchers led by Iowa State University sociologist Katie Dentzman are examining neonicotinoid use in U.S. potato production, probing consumer perceptions, regulatory gaps, and farmer trade-offs. While neonics are banned or restricted in parts of Europe and Canada, U.S. regulation is largely retailer-driven. The study combines consumer surveys, farmer focus groups, and policy analysis to assess real-world impacts, aiming to guide future decisions on pesticides, sustainability, and agricultural resilience.

Alberta potato industry showcases efficient water use by growers in new video

The Potato Growers of Alberta recently released a vital video titled “The Water Journey: From Mountains To Prairies,” highlighting the importance of water conservation amid drought conditions in the region. Executive director Terence Hochstein emphasized the video’s significance in dispelling misconceptions about agricultural water use. Featuring various stakeholders, it showcases advanced irrigation methods that maximize efficiency while benefiting both farmers and rural communities in southern Alberta.

Potato mop-top virus hits Tasmania: Government mobilises incident team

The Tasmanian Government has confirmed the first case of Potato mop-top virus (PMTV) in Australia, detected in the northwest on July 18, 2025. An Incident Management Team has been activated for tracing and containment efforts, as PMTV threatens crop quality and yields but poses no health risks. Minister Gavin Pearce emphasizes immediate action and ongoing communication with farmers while promoting the importance of biosecurity in maintaining Tasmania’s agricultural reputation.

Kiwis love potatoes – but many miss the health story, says industry research

New research from Potatoes New Zealand reveals that while fresh potatoes are New Zealanders’ favorite vegetable, many view them merely as a “carb,” overlooking their nutritional benefits. Over two-thirds consume them at least twice weekly, yet perception barriers hinder increased consumption. The study highlights the importance of promoting potatoes’ healthfulness and diverse varieties, aiming to shift public perception and address declining consumption, a priority for industry growth.

A strange-but-true origin story: How a rare hybrid created the potato we know today

A new study in Cell has solved a long-standing mystery about the potato’s origins. Researchers found that the modern potato arose about 9 million years ago from a rare hybridization between the ancestors of tomatoes and ‘Etuberosum’. This genetic union created the potato’s defining feature—the tuber—enabling it to thrive in the Andes. The findings could help breed seed-grown potatoes more resilient to disease, pests, and climate change.

Research helping Canadian producers stay ahead of late blight with climate change and new disease types lurking

Late blight disease is increasing in Central and Western Canada, threatening potato and tomato crops. Although new pathogens are emerging, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada researchers are developing identification techniques and prevention methods. They emphasize the importance of home gardeners in disease management by planting resistant varieties. Weather patterns are influencing outbreaks, especially in Eastern Canada, necessitating education and coordinated efforts among producers and the gardening community to mitigate risks.

Turning the tide on blight: Lessons from EuroBlight’s 2024 data for smarter, stronger control

The 2024 EuroBlight data reveals significant shifts in the Phytophthora infestans population, with EU_36_A2 emerging as the dominant genotype. This underscores the adaptability of late blight, necessitating strategic changes in management practices for 2025. The decline of EU_43_A1 highlights the effectiveness of disciplined fungicide stewardship. For successful control, growers must diversify resistance, utilize decision support tools, and engage in continuous surveillance to tackle evolving challenges.

Cropin secures €700K AI deal to scale regenerative potato farming in Europe

Cropin has secured a €700,000 deal to enhance regenerative potato farming in Europe through its AI platform, FIRST Potato. This initiative aims to shift conventional practices by leveraging real-time data for optimized farming. The program includes partnerships with food processors and research institutions to validate its performance on pilot farms in Denmark, Germany, and the UK. By enhancing yields and soil health, the project targets both profitability for farmers and sustainability for the agri-food sector.

Reviving old potato varieties: How heirloom and landrace potatoes are making a comeback

Heirloom and landrace potatoes are experiencing a revival driven by culture, identity, and market potential, contrasting with common commercial varieties, writes Lukie Pieterse in this article. This resurgence is fueled by consumer demand for provenance, biodiversity, and culinary uniqueness. Policy support in Europe and North America facilitates access for small growers. These potatoes embody genetic diversity, cultural heritage, and sensory appeal, representing viable products in premium markets, while offering challenges in yield and handling.

Potatoes, people, and planet: Shared values across ethical farming movements

This article discusses the similarities between traditional potato farming and the transition of livestock farmers to plant-based practices through The Transfarmation Project. Both groups value sustainable and ethical farming, focusing on land stewardship, dignity, and resilience against climate change. The project empowers farmers to reclaim their agency, offering support for a shift towards plant-focused agriculture. As they unite over shared principles of compassion and responsibility, a stronger agricultural community can emerge that benefits future generations.

Cellar Insights: Helping growers stop storage losses before they start

Cellar Insights, a Canadian agtech company, is addressing post-harvest loss in potatoes through advanced predictive analytics and crop-centered monitoring technology. By detecting rot gas emissions before spoilage is visible, their system helps growers extend storage seasons and optimize crop value. Tailored for various operation sizes, this solution promotes sustainability by minimizing waste and reducing chemical use, proving essential for the future of agricultural storage management.

Elea PEF Chip Day 2025: Experience the future of potato chip production with Pulsed Electric Field technology

Elea Technology GmbH will host the Elea PEF Chip Day on October 9, 2025, in Quakenbrück, Germany, focusing on Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) innovations for potato chips. The event follows the Anuga trade show and features the launch of the PEF Advantage B Micro system. Participants can expect live demos, industry insights, and networking opportunities, with additional testing available on October 10. Registration is now open, and attendance is free.

Early maturing crops and cracking concerns dominate Irish fields as Europe sees drought relief

Potato sales and consumption remain steady in Ireland this week, according to the IFA. Crops are maturing early, with many ready for desiccation by month’s end—though chemical options remain limited. Cracking issues have been reported, likely tied to earlier drought stress. Across Europe, cooler weather and rain have eased drought concerns, while processors continue running old crop contracts. Scotland’s seed crops fare well, but southern UK regions report drought-related yield losses.

‘Planting the future’: South Africa’s grower-led potato model captures global attention

South Africa’s potato industry is gaining global recognition for its grower-led innovation, inclusive development, and research-driven strategy. During the 2025 Potatoes South Africa Innovation Symposium, WPC President Peter VanderZaag and PSA CEO Willie Jacobs highlighted the sector’s high yields, transformation initiatives, and collaborative momentum toward WPC 2026 in Kenya. PSA’s integrated model is empowering emerging farmers, strengthening the value chain, and positioning South Africa as a forward-looking leader in global potato production.