Branston, a leading potato supplier, has achieved recognition for its net-zero emission targets by the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi). CEO Jim Windle emphasized this validation ensures a credible climate strategy. Branston aims for net-zero emissions by 2050, with interim reductions of 60% by 2033.
Global Trends
From seed shortages to soaked fields: A tough year for European potato producers
Potato farmers in Europe are grappling with significant challenges this season due to adverse weather and rising costs. Bad weather, including heavy rain, has delayed planting and harvesting, exacerbating the effects of an already insufficient seed supply and elevated prices. The European potato production is projected to decrease by nearly 9% compared to last year, highlighting the severe impact of climate change on agriculture.
Irish potato market valued at €219m over the past year, a 27.6% increase
Irish potato consumption in Ireland has risen significantly, with the retail market valued at €219 million, indicating a 27.6% increase in value and a 5.3% increase in volume over the past year. Consumer interest, especially among those under 35, drives this growth. Currently, 30% of potato sales come from value-added products, and they continue to be the preferred vegetable in the fresh produce category.
Global potato starch market poised for significant growth, projected to reach $16.48 billion by 2032
The global potato starch market is projected to grow from $10.27 billion in 2022 to $16.48 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 4.8%. Growth is driven by its extensive use in food, textiles, and pharmaceuticals, particularly due to rising gluten intolerance. However, it faces competition from corn and tapioca starches. Companies are innovating to meet consumer demand for organic and sustainable products.
The potato’s stronghold: Unpacking its dominance in U.S. produce sales
Fresh potatoes are essential in U.S. kitchens, with 85.2% of households buying them nearly 11 times annually. They dominate produce sales, accounting for 9.7% of total produce pounds. With $4.4 billion in sales over the past year, they rank consistently among the top five in fresh produce categories. Increased purchasing frequency could yield $218 million in additional sales, benefiting both growers and retailers.
Avebe and ChainCraft partner to turn potato processing waste into high-value eco-friendly products
Avebe and ChainCraft have partnered to convert potato juice waste into eco-friendly products, using advanced fermentation technology. This collaboration supports Avebe’s sustainability goals by maximizing resource efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. By transforming waste into valuable materials, it enhances agricultural sustainability and benefits potato farmers. The initiative represents a significant step forward in the development of a circular economy for the potato industry.
Growth potential revealed: Frozen potato fries market set for significant growth fueled by surge in R&D, demand for convenience foods
The “Global Frozen Potato Fries Market Insights, to 2030” report by Advance Market Analytics analyzes a growing sector. It emphasizes R&D investments, shifting consumer preferences, and major market players such as Kraft Heinz and McCain Foods. The report indicates opportunities in emerging markets like India due to rising demand for ready-to-eat options. Technological innovations and improved cold chain infrastructure are expected to shape the market’s future.
CIP: China’s potato industry thrives with global cooperation, innovation
China, the world’s largest potato producer, produces nearly 100 million metric tons annually, highlighting the crop’s importance for food security. Dr. Simon Heck from the International Potato Center (CIP) noted that China’s diverse geography enables year-round production and attracts investments from various sectors. He emphasized potato adaptability and collaboration with biotechnology experts, fostering innovations vital for agricultural advancement and economic growth in China.
French potato sector booms: UNPT calls for balanced development, strategic planning
As the 2025/2026 campaign approaches, the National Union of Potato Producers (UNPT) in France urges caution among French potato producers regarding the 7% growth in storage potato acreage in 2024. While this presents opportunities, the rapid production increase poses risks of oversupply and market instability. Producers are encouraged to consider strategic planning, collective management, and necessary investments to ensure profitability and sustainability amid climate challenges and market fluctuations.
‘Tuber Talk’: Victoria Stamper and Vikram Bisht reflect on this growing season in Canada
The 2024 growing season in Canada has been marked by unpredictability, as discussed by United Potato Growers GM Victoria Stamper and Manitoba plant pathologist Vikram Bisht on the ‘Tuber Talk’ podcast. While some anomalies are anticipated by growers, surprises like the lack of precipitation in P.E.I. pose challenges. The discussion highlights Manitoba’s unique weather impacts on crop yields, tuber quality, pests, and diseases.
‘The Challenging World of the Potato Producer’: Adapting to an uncertain future amid climate change, rising operational costs
In a recent edition of the South African national potato magazine CHIPS, Lukie Pieterse discusses the numerous challenges facing potato farmers globally. Key issues include rising operational costs due to increased prices for inputs and climate change, which disrupts growing seasons and threatens soil health. Despite these challenges, innovation and government support are crucial for adaptation.
Potatoes USA President: ‘U.S. frozen potato demand remains strong, with challenges and opportunities for future growth’
Over the past decade, U.S. potato demand, especially for frozen varieties, has surged, with sales rising 16% since 2014, writes Blair Richardson, President of Potatoes USA in this article. Despite inflation impacting foodservice traffic, fries remain prevalent on menus, with penetration projected to increase. Retail sales of frozen potatoes also rose significantly. New processing capacity and expanding international markets, particularly in Mexico, are good signs. All things considered, the future for potatoes is bright.
Lamb Weston and SABIC introduce bio-based packaging for frozen potatoes
Lamb Weston has collaborated with SABIC and Oerlemans Plastics to create sustainable packaging for frozen potato products. This solution uses over 60% bio-renewable polymers from used cooking oil, cutting the carbon footprint by 30%. The multilayer polyethylene film is durable, lightweight, and meets safety standards, certified by ISCC PLUS. Launched in September 2024 in the UK and the Netherlands, it supports Lamb Weston’s sustainability goal of reducing carbon emissions by 25% by 2030.
New report warns of ‘growing water disaster’: Why the global potato industry should take note – and act
The Global Commission on the Economics of Water released a critical report emphasizing the urgent need for transformative changes in global water management. It highlights the destabilization of the hydrological cycle, impacting food security and climate change around the world. The report is particularly relevant to the global potato industry, which relies heavily on water resources for cultivation, processing, and sustainability.