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Latest North American News

Global fertilizer crisis spurs shift to sustainable farming solutions, humates getting more attention from American farmers

The global agricultural industry faces challenges from rising fertilizer prices, influenced by the Ukraine conflict, energy costs, and trade policies. A World Bank report noted a 66% increase in fertilizer prices since 2021. This crisis highlights the need for regenerative agriculture, focusing on soil health. Live Earth Products, a Utah-based company, promotes sustainable farming with products like humic and fulvic acid. Their solutions aim to reduce reliance on fertilizers, ensuring crop quality.

Latest European News

Canary Islands reject Madrid’s potato import proposal

The Canary Islands have declined Madrid’s solution to the potato shortage caused by a poor harvest and a blockade on British imports due to a beetle outbreak. Madrid suggested importing from other UK regions, but this is hindered by protective agricultural regulations. The shortage has led to supply gaps and price surges. The delay in seed imports from the UK also threatens future harvests.

Equipment and Technology News

Agricultural robotics and AI: A glimpse into tomorrow at Agritechnica 2023

Agritechnica 2023, set for 12-18 November, will spotlight the rise of autonomous fieldwork in agriculture. The event will explore the transition to driverless machines, the blurred lines between autonomous and automated systems, and the role of AI in enhancing robot capabilities. The expo promises a deep dive into the future of farming, showcasing innovations from manufacturers, startups, and academic institutions.

Cultivation News

Canada: Potato processor warns against pink rot as harvest gets underway

One bad potato can spoil the batch, which is why processor J.R. Simplot is reminding producers to beware of pink rot as they begin harvest, as Geralyn Wichers reports for Manitoba Co-operator. “If you know there’s rot in there, tell your harvest operator, ‘when you come to that low spot, pick up the harvester, drive over, and don’t harvest those certain areas,’” said Scott Graham, Simplot’s raw agronomy manager. The fungal disease has been an issue for a number of Manitoba producers in recent years, the company said.

Latest news stories from around the World

Global fertilizer crisis spurs shift to sustainable farming solutions, humates getting more attention from American farmers

September 22, 2023

Alberta leads the way: The rise of the potato industry in 2022 highlighted in report

In 2022, Alberta’s potato industry showcased unprecedented growth, contributing $2.87 billion to Canada’s economy. Representing 150 growers, the Potato Growers of Alberta highlighted the industry’s expansion potential. With Alberta accounting for 60% of Canada’s net international seed potato exports, the region’s high-quality production and collaboration among stakeholders have positioned it as a dominant force in the potato market. The future looks promising for Alberta’s potato sector.

September 22, 2023

Canary Islands reject Madrid’s potato import proposal

September 22, 2023

World Potato Congress Inc. welcomes Blair Richardson as a Board Member

The World Potato Congress (WPC) has introduced Blair Richardson as its newest board director. WPC President, Dr. Peter VanderZaag, expressed his enthusiasm for Richardson’s addition, highlighting his previous role as an International Advisor to WPC. Richardson, the CEO of Potatoes USA since 2013, has extensive experience in the potato industry and has served on various industry boards. He is an advocate for the potato’s reputation and employs proactive marketing strategies.

September 22, 2023

‘Potatoes Forever!’ campaign launched in Europe to promote sustainable practices in the potato industry

Europe has initiated a €3.2 million “POTATOES FOREVER!” campaign, spanning three years in France and Italy, to educate the public about sustainable practices in the potato sector. Funded 80% by the European Union, the campaign aims to highlight the industry’s efforts in biodiversity protection, water conservation, and eco-friendly farming. The initiative responds to consumers’ growing demand for transparency in food production and sustainability.

September 22, 2023

Scottish farmers urge resumption of ‘hugely important’ potato trade

NFU Scotland has expressed its approval of the decision to resume the seed potato trade between Scotland and Northern Ireland on September 30. Before Brexit, Scotland exported approximately 22,000 tonnes of seed potatoes to European customers. The introduction of the “green channels” in the Windsor Framework will facilitate trade with Northern Ireland. However, Brexit has halted trade with Europe, prompting calls for the UK Government to address the situation.

September 21, 2023

Weed-killing AI drones may be the future of farming

Precision AI, a leading agricultural startup, has introduced an AI-powered crop-spraying drone to combat the growing weed issue intensified by climate change. This innovative drone reduces chemical usage by up to 90%, offering a sustainable solution to weed management. This development signifies a major advancement in eco-friendly farming, blending technology and sustainability to address environmental concerns in agriculture.

September 21, 2023

GB Potatoes appoints new CEO

GB Potatoes has named Scott Walker as its part-time CEO, effective from 2nd October. Formerly the Chief Executive of NFU Scotland for 25 years, Scott brings extensive experience to the role. He will also continue his part-time work with the Scottish Association of Meat Wholesalers, focusing on government and supply chain engagement. Scott emphasized collaboration as vital for GB Potatoes’ mission to ensure a sustainable future for potato production. Mark Taylor, GBP Chair, expressed optimism for 2024 with Scott’s appointment.

September 21, 2023

Canada: Prince Edward Island potato farmers concerned about wet conditions as harvest begins

CBC News reports on the concerns of potato farmers in Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.) as they begin their harvest amidst wet conditions. Due to the excessive rainfall during the summer, farmers are apprehensive about the impact on this year’s crop. Greg Donald, the general manager of the P.E.I. Potato Board, mentions that while the crop looks promising, it might not be as bountiful as the previous year. The wet conditions could lead to issues like tuber rot, especially in areas with poor drainage.

September 21, 2023

The battle against potato black dot: A comprehensive review of two decades of research and management strategies

Cranfield and Aberystwyth Universities conducted a 20-year study on potato black dot disease management. Their research, spanning pre- and post-harvest strategies, aimed to identify knowledge gaps and improve disease control. The potato, a staple in global agriculture, faces threats from black dot, a fungus causing economic losses. The study emphasizes the importance of technological solutions, like machine learning, for early disease detection and effective intervention.

September 20, 2023

The ‘potato chronicles’: National Potato Council unpacking the latest in US potato industry trends

The National Potato Council’s ‘Spud Nation Report’, published earlier this year, provides a detailed overview of the US potato industry. It highlights a rising demand for potatoes, with sales reaching $4.8 billion in 2022. The report discusses production trends, export-import dynamics, changing consumer preferences towards organic and non-GMO potatoes, sustainability efforts, technological advancements in food safety, marketing strategies, policy implications, labor challenges, and research initiatives.

September 19, 2023

Potato varieties ready for a changing climate: Insights from Elora Research Open House in Canada

Climate change resilience and early potato dying were the main topics at the Elora Potato Research Open House held on August 23 in Canada’s Ontario province. Vanessa Currie from the University of Guelph highlighted a five-year research study, initiated this year, focusing on potato varieties that can withstand increasing climate pressures. The annual event allows growers and buyers to preview potato varieties under testing and those that might be available in the future.

September 19, 2023

America’s ‘veggie king’: The unwavering popularity of potatoes

At the 2023 Potato Business Summit earlier this year, Kim Breshears of Potatoes USA highlighted the enduring popularity of potatoes in America. Studies show potatoes as the top vegetable for five consecutive years. While 40% of the U.S. potato crop goes to retail and food service each, 20% is exported. Despite a brief pandemic-induced dip, food service sales are rebounding, indicating a robust future for the potato industry. The data presented by Kim Breshears underscores the unwavering popularity of potatoes in the U.S. market.

September 18, 2023

SwarmFarm Robotics launches ‘dock and refill’: Ushering in the next era of agricultural autonomy

SwarmFarm Robotics, an Australian based pioneer in Integrated Autonomy, has introduced its innovative “dock and refill” feature, allowing robots to autonomously refuel and restock. This development decouples equipment size from efficiency. Historically, larger farm tools have overshadowed smaller ones in productivity. However, larger equipment has caused soil compaction, reducing yields. SwarmFarm’s new capability ensures continuous operation without manual intervention, promoting sustainable farming and tailored solutions.

September 18, 2023

Dutch potato farmers sound alarm over harvest deadline

Dutch potato farmers are facing challenges in September as their crops are undersized for the October 1 harvest deadline. EU regulations mandate that potatoes grown on sandy soil be harvested by month’s end. Failure to meet this deadline will result in reduced manure usage for fertilization the following year. Starting in 2023, the harvest deadline aims to prevent harmful nitrates and nitrogen compounds from contaminating groundwater, aligning with a European directive.

September 18, 2023

Potato exports from Ukraine in 2023 at record high, but prices and quality low

In the first half of 2023, Ukrainian farmers exported a record 19.8 thousand tons of fresh potatoes, despite tensions with Russia. This surpasses their previous high in 2013 by over 5,000 tons. However, this achievement highlights concerns for the industry’s future. Exports in 2023 were significantly higher than previous years, but the wholesale price was a mere $0.16/kg, insufficient to cover production costs. Additionally, 91% of these exports went to Moldova due to the potatoes’ low quality, as per EastFruit analysts.

September 18, 2023

Royal HZPC Group B.V. seriously affected by cybercrime

On Thursday, September 14 2023, potato breeder Royal HZPC Group B.V. became a target of a form of cybercrime, the company says in a news release issued today. A large amount of money was transferred to a bank account of criminals. “We are working together with the banks and the police to limit the damage. The outcome of this is still far from certain. An external forensic investigation has started,” the company press release reads.

September 18, 2023

Canada: Potato processor warns against pink rot as harvest gets underway

September 18, 2023

Eye on Potatoes podcast: Defending potatoes in the 2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans process

The “Eye on Potatoes” podcast discussed the upcoming 2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA). The U.S. potato industry aims to ensure accurate potato nutrition information is considered in the guidelines. NPC CEO Kam Quarles provided testimony to the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee. The podcast also featured Beth Johnson, a food policy expert with over 25 years of experience, who has been working with NPC to promote the benefits of potatoes.

September 15, 2023

EUROPLANT establishes subsidiary in Spain

EUROPLANT Pflanzenzucht GmbH recently announced that it has established a subsidiary in Spain to expand its market presence in the Mediterranean region. From now on EUROPLANT ESPAÑA Semillas S.L. will be responsible for the distribution of the modern and high-performance potato varieties in Spain. “In order to strengthen our presence and customer support, we have decided to establish EUROPLANT ESPAÑA. Our team will operate from Sevilla, covering all cultivation regions and providing competent support to our customers,” according to Joerg Renatus, CEO of EUROPLANT Pflanzenzucht GmbH.

September 15, 2023

Strengthening Aussie potato market: Lamb Weston Australia acquires Crackerjack Foods

Lamb Weston, a global supplier of frozen potato products, has acquired Victorian-based Crackerjack Foods, known for its frozen potato-based items in the Australian food services sector. The acquisition includes two Crackerjack processing facilities and will see Crackerjack’s employees join Lamb Weston. The move aims to expand Lamb Weston’s product range, enhance processing capabilities, and strengthen its presence in Australia.

September 15, 2023

European potato market: IFA provides a glimpse into current trends and future predictions

Unseasonal heatwaves in Ireland and the UK have temporarily dampened the potato market. While Ireland sees a recovery with a rising demand for Kerr Pinks, known for their excellent eating quality, yields remain inconsistent. Early crops in Ireland fare better than the later ones. The UK market faces pricing pressures due to the weather. In Europe, seed availability might influence next season’s planting. Despite current price pressures, demand from Poland, Spain, and Italy is anticipated to grow as the season advances.

September 15, 2023

Avoiding storage pitfalls: The importance of dry, cool, and disease-free potato storage facilities

Adrian Cunnington from Potato Storage Insight (PSI) offers guidance to growers on optimal potato storage. Emphasizing the significance of proper skin set and ventilation, he warns against the risks of blight and blackleg diseases reported pre-harvest. Quick storage with effective drying is crucial, especially amidst disease threats. Managing crop temperatures during loading and avoiding crop moisture are vital to maintain tuber quality and ensure successful storage.

September 15, 2023

Seeds of collaboration: The triumphs of Living Lab – Atlantic in sustainable agriculture across Canada’s Prince Edward Island

Initiated in 2018, Living Lab – Atlantic was a collaborative project in Prince Edward Island (PEI) involving farmers, scientists, and industry partners to co-develop farming practices for soil health and water quality. Completed in April 2023, the project saw over 13 activities studying beneficial management practices. The results highlighted the importance of collaboration in combating climate change and enhancing farming methods.

September 14, 2023