Equipment/Technology

The workforce is changing: How automation is reshaping the potato industry – and the people who keep it running

Labour shortages in the potato industry are prompting increased investment in automation technologies like optical sorting and autonomous equipment. While these advancements can enhance efficiency and reduce manual tasks, success hinges on skilled workers who can adapt to new roles. The transition emphasizes collaboration between experienced employees and technology, focusing on responsible changes that support affected workers. The industry’s future relies on a balance of sophisticated machinery and human expertise.

August 16, 2026

The seed multiplication gap: Why better potato genetics still struggle to reach the grower

Potato breeding has advanced significantly with improved varieties offering disease resistance and climate resilience. However, the real challenge lies in successfully multiplying these varieties into sufficient healthy planting materials at affordable prices for growers. A lack of effective seed systems leads to disparities in yield globally. This bottleneck highlights the need for investment in systems that connect breeding advances with practical seed availability for farmers, ensuring commercial success and food security.

August 16, 2026

The pathogen is changing: Why potato disease surveillance must become a core production tool

The potato industry’s approach to crop protection is evolving due to fungicide-resistant pathogens, symptomless virus infections, and complex pathogen movement. Effective management now demands early detection and coordinated surveillance, transitioning disease identification from mere reaction to proactive monitoring. Recent experiences, such as Denmark’s handling of the resistant EU43 genotype, highlight the importance of integrating advanced forecasting, rapid diagnostics, and biosecurity protocols to protect potato crops against emerging biological threats.

August 14, 2026

Fifteen years is too long: Why the potato industry is rebuilding the road from genetic discovery to the grower’s field

The potato breeding industry faces challenges from climate change, evolving diseases, and high production costs, complicating the development of new varieties. Researchers are collaborating to improve data, enhance decision-making, and accelerate breeding. The merits of modern techniques like genomic selection and gene editing are discussed, yet traditional breeding remains critical. Successful varieties must balance yield, quality, and disease resistance while considering market acceptance and long-term sustainability to thrive in a rapidly changing environment.

August 12, 2026

The potato store is learning to speak: How data and AI could reveal crop losses before they become visible

The Rotten Potato Data Project, initiated by Cellar Insights in July 2026, aims to enhance potato storage management by analyzing historical failures to predict potential spoilage before it becomes visible. By harnessing machine learning, the project seeks to identify complex patterns in environmental data, allowing operators to address issues promptly. This innovative approach not only values human expertise but also emphasizes the importance of data ownership and trust within the agricultural community.

August 12, 2026

‘The Potato as a Promise’ – Why this humble crop reminds us that the future still depends on care

In a fast-paced world, the potato symbolizes patience, resilience, and the often unseen labor that sustains life. It represents a promise of nourishment that transcends socio-economic boundaries, reminding us that true value lies in ordinary, dependable food. The potato’s story emphasizes the importance of care, tradition, and generational wisdom in agriculture, advocating for investment and gratitude towards those who contribute to vital food systems amidst modern challenges.

June 30, 2026

Growing potatoes in a hotter world: Climate resilience moves from theory to farm reality

Potato growers face significant challenges due to climate change, including increased heat, drought, and heavy rainfall, which can adversely affect crop yields. To adapt, they must prioritize effective water management, soil health, and practical strategies specific to their regions. The industry also requires new potato varieties resilient to these stresses. Collaboration among growers, researchers, and industry stakeholders is essential for building a sustainable future in potato cultivation.

June 24, 2026

Introducing PiCon: Elea’s new inline intelligence for PEF process control

Elea Technology has launched new PiCon solutions to enhance real-time transparency and automation in Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) processes, especially within the food industry. A webinar on June 30 will introduce the PiCon Sense, Vision, and Flow tools, showcasing their potential to optimize cutting, monitor belt loads, and track resource consumption. These innovations aim to improve efficiency, product quality, and sustainability in PEF applications.

June 24, 2026

Storage under stress: How climate change is rewriting the rules for potato dormancy and disease risk

Potato storage is facing increasing challenges due to climate change, which affects crop conditions prior to storage. Factors like heat stress and drought alter tuber physiology, impacting dormancy and disease risk. Effective storage now requires thorough understanding and management of the crop’s field experience. As the storage becomes a critical climate-risk management system, improved monitoring, risk sorting, and enhanced infrastructure are essential for safeguarding potato quality and minimizing losses.

June 24, 2026

Hydrogen-based crop chemistry: A new input-efficiency tool for potato growers?

Aqueus, a Michigan-based company, introduces hydrogen-based crop chemistry to address challenges faced by potato growers, like rising costs and environmental concerns. Their main product, Growthful, aims to enhance soil conditions and crop performance without replacing existing practices. While initial field trials show promising results, independent validation is essential. Aqueus seeks partnerships with growers and agronomists for further testing to establish transparency and trust in their claims regarding efficiency and sustainability.

June 22, 2026

Kiremko, Idaho Steel and Reyco brands join forces with Tummers and Van Der Giessen

A leading food processing equipment group has acquired Tummers Group and Van der Giessen, strengthening its position in the potato processing industry. Combining the expertise of Kiremko, Idaho Steel, Reyco, Tummers, and Van der Giessen, the new entity aims for €400 million in annual revenue. This strategic move enhances innovation, sustainability, and customer support across global markets, focusing on resource efficiency and reducing costs in french fry and potato flake processing.

June 22, 2026

The potato store is becoming a strategic asset — and the industry can no longer afford to treat it as a dark box

Modern potato storage has evolved from a passive holding phase to a critical management system that significantly impacts the entire potato value chain. It safeguards grower income and market quality while addressing challenges like climate change and resource costs. The post-CIPC era necessitates advanced management approaches, integrating technology with human expertise. Efficient storage is crucial for food security and deserves heightened focus in industry practices and policies.

June 22, 2026

Reducing soil, stones, and defects: Advances in potato sorting and screening

Potato processing relies on consistent quality and efficiency, prompting processors to adopt advanced sorting and screening technologies. Traditional methods alone are insufficient for identifying defects and ensuring optimal quality control. Automation, including AI and machine vision, enhances defect detection, reducing waste while improving product yield. Integrated systems improve operational performance, protect equipment, and streamline production, allowing facilities to better manage quality and efficiency in the face of evolving industry demands.

June 2, 2026

Potatoes at the Crossroads: New book explores the future of the global potato industry

A new book by Potato News Today editor and publisher Lukie Pieterse examines the global potato industry at a critical turning point. Potatoes at the Crossroads: People, Climate and the Future of a Quietly Powerful Crop explores food security, climate change, water risk, disease pressure, storage, technology, markets, sustainability, and the human realities behind potato production. The book is now available as a softcover and eBook through Amazon.

May 25, 2026

AIVA Network launches to strengthen real-world validation of agtech on Canadian farms

AIVA, the Agriculture Innovation, Validation and Adoption Network, has launched in Winnipeg to help Canadian farmers adopt agtech with greater confidence. Founded by FCC, EMILI, and WHIN, AIVA will test early-stage and market-ready technologies under real-world farm conditions. For 2026, its Validation Hubs will conduct nine national, multi-site projects involving tools such as spray drones, remote sensors, and farm management software.

May 12, 2026

AVR strengthens Canadian presence with exclusive Ontario partnership

AVR has appointed Farm Power Equipment Inc. as the exclusive dealer for its potato equipment in Ontario, Canada, enhancing support for local growers. This partnership promises improved local assistance, quicker parts availability, and expert technical services. With expertise in the Ontario market, Farm Power Equipment aims for long-term growth and customer satisfaction. Effective immediately, they will oversee all AVR sales, service, and parts operations in the region.

April 23, 2026

Higher yield, lower costs and better quality: PEF for potato chip production

Join Elea’s webinar on April 20 to explore Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) technology for optimizing potato chip processing in the Americas. Elea, a leader in PEF systems, will showcase how their technology can enhance yield, reduce costs, and improve product quality in chip production. Led by Prof. Dr. Stefan Toepfl and Kevin Hill, the session includes a live demonstration of the PEF Advantage B Micro unit.

April 16, 2026

Urschel to debut Little Gem Aspire Dicer at major global food processing trade shows in 2026

Urschel will unveil the Little Gem Aspire Dicer, a cutting-edge machine for fruit and vegetable processing, at several upcoming trade shows starting in May 2026. This innovative dicer, developed by the Urschel I&D team, features patented technology for precision cuts and a compact design. The new model builds on the legacy of the original Little Gem, a groundbreaking invention from the early 1900s. Further details will be available on Urschel’s website.

April 16, 2026

The Crop Protection Transition: From Chemicals to Biologicals Powered by AgTech

The agricultural sector is shifting from chemical reliance to biological solutions enhanced by AgTech, amidst significant restructuring among major chemical companies. Biological crop-protection solutions are gaining traction, promoting regenerative farming. The transition is uneven due to grower hesitancy and market dynamics. Companies that innovate quickly will find opportunities in this emerging market, as chemical dependence declines and biological solutions promise enhanced resilience and productivity in farming systems.

April 11, 2026

LOCKWOOD names PGS Equipment as new potato equipment dealer for Alberta and surrounding region

PGS Equipment, Ltd. has become the authorized dealer for LOCKWOOD potato equipment in Alberta, focusing on sales, parts, and service. Chris Laaveg, LOCKWOOD Sales Manager, emphasized PGS’s commitment to supporting local growers through education and service. Based in Taber, PGS provides extensive agricultural machinery services and a strong parts supply. For more information, contact Chris Laaveg or visit the respective websites.

April 10, 2026

Bord Bia: Social media ‘influencing growing interest in potatoes’ in Ireland

Social media and digital food trends are significantly boosting interest in potatoes, says Bord Bia’s horticulture team. Trends like loaded jacket potatoes and cheese-stuffed sweet potatoes have gained traction among users. Younger consumers use digital platforms for recipe inspiration, relying heavily on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. This illustrates a responsive audience and highlights opportunities for repositioning potatoes in modern meal solutions.

April 6, 2026

In potatoes, ag tech’s next big payoff may be efficiency – not yield alone

As the potato sector faces tighter margins, climate pressure, and stricter quality demands, the strongest return from ag technology may increasingly come from efficiency rather than yield alone. Precision irrigation, better nitrogen management, improved sensing, stronger disease prevention, and smarter storage systems can all reduce waste and protect marketable output. In potatoes, the next big ROI may lie in producing each saleable tonne with fewer inputs and fewer hidden losses.

April 3, 2026

Targeted virus testing set to modernise Scotland’s seed potato industry

Scotland’s plant health authorities are implementing targeted post-harvest virus testing for the Cara seed potato variety to manage rising virus levels and modernize plant health inspections. David Kenyon from Sasa highlights a significant increase in virus infections between the fourth and fifth generations of crops. This initiative aims to improve understanding and management of virus presence, particularly for the widely grown variety known for its susceptibility to potato leaf roll virus.

April 3, 2026

Food Northwest Process & Packaging Expo to feature Urschel and KRONEN processing solutions

Join Urschel at the Food Northwest Process & Packaging Expo in Portland, Oregon, on April 20-21, 2026. Visit Booth 402 to explore cutting-edge solutions like the Sprint 2 Dicer, KRONEN GS 10-2 Slicer, and KS-100 PLUS Centrifuge/Dryer, designed to enhance production efficiency and precision in food processing. The expo is the largest regional trade show in the U.S., offering valuable networking and education opportunities.

March 31, 2026

Minimizing damage in potato handling: Lessons from grain handling systems

Effective potato handling requires meticulous system design and operating practices to minimize mechanical injuries. By adopting strategies from grain handling, such as controlled drop heights, gentle conveying, and adequate storage conditions, the industry can significantly reduce bruising. Understanding damage mechanisms and implementing thorough monitoring practices are essential for preserving quality and customer confidence.

March 30, 2026