North America

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

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

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

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

Less nitrogen, but the same crop?

A Prince Edward Island field study found that reducing potato nitrogen applications by 25% preserved marketable yield while some combinations of rotation and enhanced-efficiency fertiliser sharply lowered nitrous oxide emissions. The result is promising, but it is not a universal recommendation to cut rates. It demonstrates why nitrogen decisions should reflect soil supply, rotation history, weather, variety and requirements—and why measuring the crop matters more than following a habitual number.

September 28, 2026

‘Weed hunters reloaded’: Canadian scientists targeting troublesome weeds with grit and innovation

Dr. Andrew McKenzie-Gopsill’s research explores a novel weed control method for Canadian farmers using baking soda and corn cob grit. By employing abrasive techniques and bioherbicides, the approach effectively targets stubborn weeds, like lamb’s quarters and wild buckwheat, without harming potato crops or yields. While promising, challenges include sourcing materials and costs. This method particularly benefits high-value and organic crops, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional herbicides.

September 28, 2026

Potatoes, humane farming and the wider circle of care

Potatoes may seem far removed from animal welfare, but they occupy an important place in the wider conversation about humane farming. As organisations such as Mercy For Animals support farmers seeking alternatives to industrial animal agriculture through initiatives like The Transfarmation Project, the potato sector has an opportunity to contribute practical crop knowledge, market insight and solidarity rooted in farmer dignity, food security and responsible land stewardship.

September 25, 2026

How cold chain logistics helps reduce waste in fresh and frozen potato distribution

Potatoes are vital to global food supply, yet significant amounts spoil before reaching consumers due to inadequate cold chain logistics. Effective temperature and humidity control from harvest to storage is crucial to minimize degradation and sprouting. Cold storage and consistent monitoring throughout transportation prevent quality loss. Implementing efficient cold chain practices reduces waste, benefiting both profitability and sustainability, while enhancing potato supply chain resilience for manufacturers and distributors.

September 23, 2026

‘One drop at a time’, part 4: Why drip remains an outsider in North American potato country

Potato growers across North America face increasing pressure to optimize water usage, with alternatives like drip irrigation and centre pivots vying for efficacy. Drip irrigation is recognized for precision but competes with well-established centre pivots that suit large-scale operations. The suitability of each system varies regionally, influenced by factors like soil type and water availability. Factors such as operational efficiency, costs, and environmental impacts must be weighed to determine the best irrigation approach for specific situations.

September 5, 2026

Potato growers welcome new USDA protections against potato wart

Potato growers are supportive of new USDA regulations designed to combat potato wart from Prince Edward Island. National Potato Council CEO Kam Quarles highlighted the absence of the disease in the U.S. and the potential risks it poses. He also touched on anti-dumping orders affecting U.S. potatoes in British Columbia and the resulting trade tensions with Canada, potentially increasing costs for growers. Quarles expressed hope for Congress to pass the Farm Bill by year-end.

September 1, 2026

McCain’s inaugural global ‘Spud Report’ finds fries crossing cultures, generations and borders

A McCain Foods survey of over 12,000 adults from 11 countries revealed that French fries are the most favored potato dish globally. The Spud Report highlighted fries’ emotional significance as comfort food linked to happiness and social interactions. Findings showed cultural variations in consumption patterns, with fries seen as snacks in India and China, while other nations viewed them as meal accompaniments. McCain intends to implement regenerative agriculture practices by 2030, linking consumer preferences to farming practices.

August 28, 2026

Longer potato rotations linked to improved tuber quality and stronger short-term returns in US trials

New research indicates that extending potato crop rotations can enhance tuber quality and profitability, based on a four-year study across various U.S. locations. While longer rotations performed better economically, results for other practices like fumigation and biofumigation were inconsistent. The findings suggest that potato growers may improve soil and crop health without sacrificing quality, but economic outcomes may vary and need careful evaluation over multiple growing seasons.

August 27, 2026

The seed looked clean. The test said otherwise: Oregon study exposes a hidden potato disease pathway

A nine-year study from Oregon State University revealed that seed potatoes appearing healthy can carry hidden pathogens, including the powdery scab pathogen and potato mop-top virus, without showing visible symptoms. The study suggests visual inspections alone are inadequate for detecting these risks, advocating for targeted molecular testing to enhance seed certification and protect agricultural fields from hidden threats. Findings carry implications for the broader potato industry.

August 27, 2026

Idaho’s potato farmers are getting squeezed from all sides

Chick-fil-A sources most of its frozen french fries from Idaho’s Lamb Weston, a company facing numerous challenges such as droughts and increased foreign competition. Farmers like Kamren Koompin are adapting through scientific advances while struggling with fluctuating prices, federal nutrition guidelines, and a movement against processed foods. Despite their productivity, farmers are experiencing price depressions, impacting their financial stability amid rising production costs.

August 16, 2026

North America’s potato industry in 2026: Smaller acreage, strong processing demand and a market still searching for balance

In 2026, North American potato growers are navigating reduced acreage and strong but uneven demand, particularly in the US where plantings fell by over 3%. While Canadian acreage remains stable, the industry faces challenges like production costs, climate variability, and trade uncertainty. Enhanced processing capacity shapes market dynamics, yet profitability relies on balanced supply and demand. The key is aligning production adequately to sustain the industry’s viability amid evolving consumer preferences and market conditions.

August 14, 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

NAPSO and Spud Smart to host free potato storage webinar on finishing the season strong

The North America Potato Storage Organization (NAPSO) will host a free online webinar on June 19, focusing on potato storage management. Titled “Storage Turnover: Finishing Strong & Preparing Ahead,” it is aimed at helping growers and storage managers optimize their processes. Expert speakers Tyson Arnold and Nathan Gelles will cover key topics such as sanitation, storage planning, and crop protection to enhance profitability and crop quality in the storage season.

June 18, 2026

New insecticide option for Colorado potato beetle management

A new insecticide, Zivalgo, has been introduced for effective control of Colorado potato beetles and other pests, according to Zsofia Szendrei from Michigan State University. As a Group 30 insecticide, Zivalgo operates through a unique mechanism compared to existing products, aiding resistance management. It controls all life stages of beetles and can be applied until 14 days before harvest, but should be reserved for specific conditions to protect its efficacy.

June 10, 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

MSU researchers develop 5 new potato varieties to bolster US chip supply

Researchers at Michigan State University have developed five new potato varieties aimed at enhancing the U.S. potato chip supply by increasing disease resistance, long-term storage, and processing reliability. Named Manistee, Mackinaw, Petoskey, Huron Chipper, and Blackberry, these varieties improve quality maintenance over months of storage. They are essential for Michigan, the leading potato producer for chip processing, where about 70% of the crop is used for chips, ensuring consistent supply year-round.

June 2, 2026

Could potatoes help farmers transition out of intensive animal agriculture?

As The Transfarmation Project helps livestock and poultry farmers explore plant-focused futures, potatoes may offer one practical pathway for some farms seeking to transition out of intensive animal agriculture. While potatoes are not an easy crop and require serious agronomic, storage and market expertise, the potato sector could play a constructive role by offering mentorship, technical guidance and market insight to farmers seeking a dignified new beginning.

May 28, 2026

MSU potato program awarded for 2026 Technology Transfer Achievement

David Douches, a distinguished professor at Michigan State University, highlights his commitment to plant breeding, particularly for potatoes, which are vital for farmers and consumers. His work includes developing the resilient “Manistee” variety that extends storage time for Michigan growers and reduces chemical usage through genetic resistance. Douches also pioneers diploid breeding for improved efficiency and has created the nutritious “Blackberry” potato, showcasing successful collaborations that benefit agriculture and health.

May 18, 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

Drought pressure builds across key U.S. potato regions as 2026 season gets underway

A widespread U.S. drought is adding early-season uncertainty for potato growers in several key production states, especially Idaho, Oregon, Colorado, Nebraska, Maine, Texas and Florida. While some major regions still have adequate field moisture, drought risk is shifting attention to irrigation allocations, energy costs, tuber set, quality and yield potential. The full crop impact remains uncertain, but 2026 is already shaping up as a water-watch season.

April 26, 2026