News October 2026

From rice straw to potato fields: Vietnam connects crop rotations, composting and regional learning

A recent workshop in northern Vietnam focused on integrating potatoes into diversified farming systems, linking crop production, nutrient management, and local markets. Participants visited the Nam Cuong Cooperative to discuss innovative practices in rice and potato farming, aiming to enhance farmers’ livelihoods. The cooperative exemplifies how coordinated crop management can optimize resources. The collaboration explores sustainable practices, seed management, and composting, reinforcing the importance of adaptable farming strategies for broader agricultural success.

October 12, 2026

Strong El Niño puts potato storage economics under scrutiny in new NAPSO bulletin

The North America Potato Storage Organization (NAPSO) warns that the intensifying El Niño phenomenon could significantly impact potato storability, energy costs, and market returns post-2026 harvest. A recent bulletin merges climate assessments with potato-storage research, highlighting challenges from warmer temperatures and uncertain precipitation patterns. Essential factors for storage management include tuber condition, local weather, and monitoring variables such as bruising and moisture levels, influencing economic outcomes.

October 12, 2026

Urschel’s new Little Gem Aspire Dicer and its other high-performing cutting solutions to be featured at SIAL Paris

Urschel will showcase its innovative Little Gem Aspire™ Dicer at SIAL Paris from October 17-21, 2026, along with other heavy-duty equipment. Attendees can see live demonstrations and learn about precision cutting solutions that enhance operational efficiency. Key machinery includes the CCX-D Shredder, Sprint 2® Dicer, Comitrol® Processor Model 1700, and Comitrol® Disc Mill (DM) 380. Visit Booth P230 in Hall 5A for more information.

October 12, 2026

Elea wins Silver International FoodTec Award 2027 for PiCon Sense

Elea Technology GmbH has won the Silver International FoodTec Award 2027 for its PiCon Sense platform, which enhances Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) process monitoring and optimization. This innovation allows food processors to utilize real-time data and AI analysis to improve treatment effectiveness. The award will be presented during Anuga FoodTec 2027 in Cologne, where Elea will exhibit its advanced PEF technology and applications, reinforcing its leadership in the industry.

October 12, 2026

Beyond the harvest: England’s potato growers face a critical winter water test

The recent drought update highlights the urgent need for England’s potato industry to focus on replenishing irrigation reservoirs, as many are only 0-20% full. A temporary regulatory measure allows some growers to refill outside typical periods but requires compliance with environmental protections. The situation emphasizes the importance of water management for future production, stressing that separate assessments of past yields and future resource availability are crucial for planning.

October 10, 2026

Breeding for the plate: Poulette potato brings a decade of flavor-led development into retail

Row 7’s Poulette potato, developed through collaboration between chefs, breeders, and growers, offers a unique roast chicken flavor. Available in select Whole Foods, it demonstrates a new culinary approach to potato marketing. Consumer response will gauge its commercial success. Originating from a conversation between Chef Michel Bras and breeder Walter De Jong, the project emphasizes flavor alongside agricultural viability, shaping future potato breeding and consumer choices.

October 10, 2026

The final loads matter: NAPSO urges extra care as harvest pressures mount

As potato harvesting wraps up in North America, the North America Potato Storage Organization (NAPSO) emphasizes the importance of safety amidst the pressure. Their article outlines essential precautions for growers and workers, highlighting communication, risk assessments, and fatigue management. Protecting worker safety is crucial, as incidents can impact entire communities. The article provides safety check questions and resources to support safe storage practices during this critical time.

October 10, 2026

Assessing the autumn potato crop: Germany’s harvest outlook depends on both production volume and marketable quality

Germany anticipates a significantly reduced potato harvest of about 10.4 million tonnes in 2026, down from 13.9 million tonnes in 2025. Weather factors and decreased planting area have influenced this decline. Industry representatives emphasize that while production is lower, it does not necessarily mean supply shortages due to existing demand, storage conditions, and market specifics. Further assessments will clarify how the crop meets market needs throughout the season.

October 8, 2026

From resistance genes to hybrid seed: CIP sets out two routes to stronger potato production

A recent update by the International Potato Center (CIP) highlights advances in late blight resistance and diploid hybrid breeding techniques presented by Director General Simon Heck at the World Agrifood Innovation Conference in Beijing. The emphasis on local partnerships aims to enhance farmer access to these innovations. Multiple approaches, including biotechnology and hybrid breeding, aim to improve potato varieties, addressing biological challenges while ensuring market compatibility and reliable seed supply for sustainable agricultural practices.

October 8, 2026

Big potatoes, tighter choices: US harvest advances while large russets remain under pressure

The US potato harvest is underway, with good quality and availability reported. However, there are tight supplies of larger russets in Idaho and ongoing demand for bigger sizes in Washington. While harvesting improves general availability, specific size shortages may persist, affecting restaurants and distributors. Factors including varying regional crop performance and processor demand also impact market conditions, necessitating careful monitoring of specifications and communication among buyers and suppliers.

October 8, 2026

First International Potato Symposium: Europe’s potato sector calls for closer cooperation as climate and market pressures mount

The 1st International Potato Symposium in Madrid on October 5 gathered approximately 250 professionals to discuss challenges and opportunities within the potato sector. Organized by FEPEX and Europatat, the event focused on production, market developments, plant health, and sustainability. Key speakers addressed the complexities of potato production amidst climate change and resource pressures. The symposium emphasized collaboration across the value chain to address shared challenges and ensure a strong European potato sector in future policy discussions.

October 8, 2026

Connecting Urschel-KRONEN processing line solutions to make trade show debut at Pack Expo

Urschel and KRONEN equipment will be showcased at Pack Expo in Chicago from October 18-21, 2026, demonstrating their collaborative processing line solutions. Attendees can see machines like the Sprint 2 Dicer and HEWA 3800 PLUS in action, focusing on optimizing production and sanitation. Visitors are invited to Booth LU-7135 for insights into additional equipment, including the new Little Gem Aspire Dicer, and to learn about test-cutting services.

October 1, 2026