Europe, UK, Ireland

Elea: Insights from the PEF Advantage Day and where PEF is heading next

Elea Technology is showcasing its advancements in pulsed electric field (PEF) technology through various projects, including its insights from PEF Advantage Day 2026 and participation in WCE 2026. The event highlighted new process monitoring developments, featuring the PiCon Sense and PiCon Vision systems. Elea is collaborating with Kiron Food Processing Technologies to enhance potato processing in India. Upcoming events will provide opportunities to discuss PEF applications and innovations in food processing.

September 29, 2026

Before Europe plants again: The changing shape of its seed-potato supply

Europe’s seed-potato multiplication area has fallen to 105,155 hectares across six leading regions, but the headline decline tells only part of the story. The sharper contraction in major French-fry varieties, combined with certification risk and concentrated production, could shape planting choices in 2027. This article examines what the figures mean, what they do not prove, and why Europe’s seed growers remain essential to potato supply chains far beyond the continent.

September 29, 2026

EU-4 potato production set to fall by almost a quarter

The EU-4 potato harvest is projected to decline significantly this season, with an estimated production of 20.8 million tonnes, about 25% lower than last year due to reduced acreage and yields influenced by adverse weather and market conditions. This reduction impacts the European processing industry, although many contracts were secured prior to harvest, stabilizing prices somewhat. The effects on growers are direct, while processing costs remain complex and variable.

September 25, 2026

Can a digital twin support potato irrigation without permanent field sensors?

AGORÀ, developed by VAIMEE, helps potato growers optimize irrigation decisions by integrating crop, soil, weather, and management data. This decision-support system updates daily and can predict irrigation needs for up to three days ahead, relying on existing field data. A 2026 assessment in Italy compared AGORÀ’s recommendations with actual irrigation events, exploring various configurations to enhance timing, while keeping the grower involved in final decisions. The study didn’t assess the impact on crop yield or quality.

September 8, 2026

GB Potatoes at four: What are the challenges and priorities?

GB Potatoes, established four years ago following the dissolution of AHDB Potatoes, serves as an essential representative for potato growers in the UK, according to Emma Gillbard in Farmers Weekly. Chief executive Scott Walker highlights the organization’s critical role in filling the void left in industry advocacy. With robust support from the supply chain, GB Potatoes aims to expand its membership to enhance its influence and effectiveness.

September 1, 2026

Scotts Precision Manufacturing to showcase Evolution Separator at PotatoEurope 2026

Scotts Precision Manufacturing will showcase its flagship Evolution Separator at PotatoEurope 2026, hosted near Hanover, Germany, on September 9-10. The machine is designed for efficient crop cleaning, removing debris while minimizing damage. Celebrating its 1,000th unit sold, Scotts emphasizes the Evolution’s versatility across various crops. This event, focusing on practical agricultural technology, allows attendees to engage with Scotts at Stand GD40 to explore its applications further.

September 1, 2026

UK drought tightens its grip on potatoes, but scale of crop losses remains uncertain

England and Wales are facing an exceptional drought that significantly impacts potato growers, causing reduced tuber sizes, heightened irrigation costs, and challenging harvesting conditions. Despite these pressures, there is no definitive national crop-loss estimate, highlighting regional variations in drought severity. While diminished yields are expected, the potato market is not collapsing; instead, it is under pressure with potential upward price movements and concerns regarding quality and tuber sizes.

August 28, 2026

Haith and GRIMME to exhibit together at PotatoEurope 2026 event

Two prominent names in the potato industry, Haith and GRIMME, will co-exhibit at Potato Europe for the first time on September 9-10 in Springe, Germany. Haith will showcase its extensive range of potato handling machinery, emphasizing its quality and manufacturing standards. The collaboration aims to highlight the synergy between both companies, providing comprehensive solutions for the potato industry from planting to packing, fostering innovation and sustainability.

August 27, 2026

French potato production could fall 23% as drought and heat cut yields: Lowest yields in more than 30 years

French potato growers are facing the lowest average yield in over 30 years due to extreme weather conditions, with projections showing a 14% decrease in yield for 2026. Factors such as heatwaves, drought, and reduced planted area could result in a 23% decline in production. Concerns about contract fulfillment and a potential economic loss of €400 million have prompted calls for government assistance. The outcome remains uncertain as harvest results become clear.

August 24, 2026

IDS camera technology enables precision potato sorting for professional and family-run farms

The Farmsort.one optical precision sorter revolutionizes potato classification by employing multiple IDS industrial cameras over a 1.5-metre inspection section. This system meets rising quality demands and labor shortages in agriculture by enabling multi-grade sorting based on size and quality in a single pass. It reduces manual resourcing, emphasizing repeated inspections and controlled handling, ensuring reliable assessments even in challenging conditions, thus optimizing overall throughput.

August 20, 2026

Lamb Weston flags price risks from heat-impacted potato crop

James Gray, CFO of Lamb Weston, has identified new cost pressures facing the French fries maker, notably linked to extreme weather in Europe impacting potato crops. Despite current supply coverage, potential shortages could heighten inflationary pressures from geopolitical conflicts. During a recent conference, Gray noted reduced yields due to early crop maturation and encouraged innovation in response to competitive restaurant markets.

August 16, 2026

Drought pressure spreads across north-west Europe’s potato belt

North-Western Europe is facing severe challenges in potato production due to drought and extreme heat affecting countries like France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany. With an estimated 11% reduction in planted area and intensified irrigation demands, crop growth has slowed significantly. The situation threatens yield and quality, leading to fears of tighter supply in the 2026 market if sustained rainfall does not occur soon.

August 13, 2026

England’s drought deepens as potato growers confront mounting yield and quality risks

Record drought conditions in England threaten the potato crop’s yield, tuber quality, and market availability, with about 71% of the country experiencing drought as of August 10. Challenges include reduced tuber bulking, smaller sizes, and difficulty meeting market specifications. Irrigation is crucial, yet access to water is becoming restricted. The situation calls for strategic water management to sustain potato production amid growing concerns over food security.

August 12, 2026

Longer potato rotations boost yields and disease resistance

A recent report from GB Potatoes highlights the advantages British growers experience from extended potato-based rotations, which lead to improved economic performance and lower disease pressure. According to the report, these rotations can yield nearly 40 percent more food compared to cereal-based systems. Longer rotations, now prevalent in the UK, enhance disease resistance and sustainability, aiding farmers in producing nutritious food efficiently.

July 8, 2026

Europe’s heatwave puts potato crops under pressure as Spain reports early yield concerns

A late-June heatwave in Europe is raising significant concerns for potato crops, particularly in Spain, where heat stress and increased irrigation demands threaten yields. Reports indicate potential declines of 10% to 15% compared to optimal conditions, exacerbated by reduced planted areas. The broader impact of high temperatures and limited rainfall across Europe could intensify crop challenges. Future assessments will reveal the extent of damage, with critical factors including tuber bulking and soil moisture.

June 27, 2026

European potato markets shift; Ireland’s Queens enter strong-demand market

The prolonged spell of warm weather in Ireland this week has dampened home consumption of potatoes, according to the Irish Farmers Association’s latest Potato Market Report, issued on June 24. However, IFA noted that the food service sector should see a welcome boost as school holidays get underway next week. Queens are slowly coming onto the market, with demand reported[Read More…]

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

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

UK: Greenvale MD David Rankin to step back

Greenvale, a major potato supplier, is experiencing a leadership transition as managing director David Rankin, who has been with the company for over 30 years and served as MD since 2022, departs for new opportunities. An interim leadership structure is in place to ensure continuity. The company remains committed to delivering high-quality products and growth within the Produce Investments Group, according to a recent statement.

June 10, 2026

Europatat elects Peter Ton as its new President

Last week, Europatat held its annual Congress in Brussels, attended by 90 members. A new Board was elected for 2026-2030, appointing Peter Ton as President, alongside Vice-President Vlastimil Rasocha and Treasurer Francisco Moya. Key priorities include trade, plant health, food safety, and sustainability reporting. The 2025-2026 Activity Report was presented, detailing Europatat’s initiatives and is publicly accessible on their website.

June 10, 2026

GB Potatoes CEO warns sector is under pressure

Scott Walker, CEO of GB Potatoes, highlights that the potato industry illustrates the challenges faced by modern agriculture, emphasizing its historical importance in the UK food system. The sector has endured multiple crises, including Brexit, the pandemic, and inflation, impacting business resilience. Despite ongoing pressures, Walker expresses cautious optimism for future growth, citing the upcoming GB Potato Summit as an opportunity for collaboration and innovation.

June 3, 2026

Spain: The potato sector is preparing for a new season marked by a reduction in cultivated area, increase in costs

The potato harvest in Andalusia has decreased by 5%, roughly 10,000 hectares, due to severe storms. Despite this, yields are projected to surpass those of 2025. Marco Román from Asociafruit voiced concerns over the market dominance of low-quality French potatoes, which contain harmful acrylamide levels and are priced the same as new potatoes. The upcoming Fruit Attraction fair will spotlight potatoes, celebrating their global agricultural significance.

June 2, 2026

Greenvale achieves EcoVadis silver rating, placing in top 11% globally

Greenvale has earned a Silver rating from EcoVadis, recognizing its strong environmental and social responsibility performance. Ranking in the 89th percentile globally, the company excelled in Sustainable Procurement, Environmental concerns, and Labour & Human Rights. This achievement reflects Greenvale’s commitment to effective sustainability practices and the collective effort of its team. The company aims to enhance its ESG initiatives in future assessments while adhering to regulatory frameworks.

May 13, 2026

Potato futures record dramatic surge of more than 700 percent in less than a month

Potato-linked financial contracts have surged over 700 percent in less than a month due to fears about the Iran war and its impact on agricultural supply chains. Contracts for difference rose from €2.11 to €18.50. Despite this, Europe faces a potato oversupply, leading to significant price drops for lower-grade potatoes. Farmers struggle with increasing production costs, making current pricing levels financially unsustainable.

May 11, 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