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.
Global Trends
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.
‘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.
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.
Wireworms on the rise: A growing threat to global potato production
Potato growers globally face an escalating crisis due to wireworms, pests that severely damage crops. This issue has broadened from specific regions to widespread infestations, notably in Europe and North America. Contributory factors include climate change, agricultural practices, and fewer natural predators. As chemical controls phase out, innovative biological solutions and sustainable practices are essential. Immediate collaborative action is needed to mitigate economic losses and ensure future potato production stability.
When microbiology and AI come together: Researchers unveil an AI tool to predict seed potato performance
Researchers from Utrecht University and Delft University of Technology have developed an AI tool that predicts the growth potential of seed potatoes by analyzing DNA data from microbes and drone images of plants. This advancement highlights the importance of bacteria and fungi in potato growth, allowing for the identification of beneficial microbes that enhance yield, sustainability, and resilience while minimizing chemical use in farming.
Smart farming upgrade: New CultiWise drones revolutionize fungicide and fertilizer mapping for potato growers
CultiWise, an innovative software from Skymaps, provides potato growers with high-precision “prescription maps” generated quickly using drones, overcoming satellite image limitations. The system enhances efficiency with potential cost savings and yield increases of up to 20% and 10% respectively. By enabling targeted variable-rate applications, it supports sustainable farming practices across various crops. Accessible globally, CultiWise has over 1,000 subscribers leveraging its advanced agricultural solutions.
From farm to fry: McCain Foods brings regenerative agriculture to consumers in new campaigns
McCain Foods is advancing its commitment to regenerative agriculture, aiming to implement these practices across all potato-growing farms by 2030. Despite widespread unfamiliarity with regenerative agriculture, many Canadians and individuals in the UK and US express a desire to learn more. McCain’s campaigns, including a new augmented reality game and real-life experiences, promote sustainability while partnering with influencers to celebrate this movement and their new Regen Fries.
A cultural and culinary revival: Why Germans are once again embracing the humble potato
The potato, integral to German cuisine, is experiencing a revival, with per capita consumption rising from 55.7 to 63.5 kilograms between July 2023 and June 2024. Fresh potato consumption increased by 8.4 kilograms, while processed products declined. Factors such as retail promotions and direct purchases from farms are driving this change. The potato’s historical significance as a staple food reflects a shift towards traditional, sustainable eating.
Sustainable success: Next-gen fertiliser delivers stronger soils and bigger harvests for Aussie growers
Australian farmers are achieving positive results with Fertica H+, a biologically enhanced efficiency fertiliser designed to improve soil health and support sustainable practices. Trials indicate its unique blend of nutrients, humic acid, and organic matter enhances nutrient absorption and increases crop yields while reducing fertiliser use. Fertica H+ promotes soil resilience and improves microbial health, addressing challenges like nutrient depletion and poor soil structure in Australian agriculture.
Preserving a favourite staple: Cranfield University researchers work with PepsiCo and Solynta to extend potato shelf life
New research in the UK aims to enhance potato dormancy and storage life, crucial for maintaining year-round supplies. Following the ban of the sprouting-inhibiting chemical CIPC, storage life has declined. Cranfield University collaborates with PepsiCo and Solynta to develop new potato varieties that extend storage, reduce energy use, and minimize chemicals, ultimately decreasing food waste and environmental impact while ensuring high-quality supplies for consumers.
Healthier potatoes ahead: Scientists discovered a way to reduce natural toxins in spuds
A team of international scientists led by the University of California, Riverside, has developed a method to eliminate toxic compounds from potatoes, enhancing their safety and storage. The research focuses on managing steroidal glycoalkaloids (SGAs) through the protein GAME15, allowing the plant to produce these compounds solely in leaves. This could reduce food waste and be beneficial for space farming and vertical agriculture.
Tesco partners with Branston to pioneer low-carbon potato farming practices
Tesco is partnering with innovative farms, including Branston, to trial sustainable technologies like low-carbon fertilizers and alternative fuels. The initiative follows a report based on consultations with over 300 UK farmers who seek clear government policies and funding to adopt sustainable practices amid climate change challenges. Tesco aims to enhance farmers’ skills and knowledge for sustainable agriculture alongside its suppliers and academic institutions.