Varieties

More than calories: Can an iron-rich potato change a family’s health?

Peru is moving two conventionally bred, iron-rich potato varieties into certified seed production after decades of research. The science is promising: a controlled trial found that meals made from an iron-biofortified potato delivered substantially more absorbed iron than a conventional comparison. Yet breeding is only the beginning. Seed availability, farmer confidence, culinary acceptance, affordability and public-health coordination will determine whether a better tuber becomes measurably better nutrition for Andean families.

September 30, 2026

Same variety, different crop: Why seed-tuber age deserves more attention

Physiological age significantly affects seed tuber performance, but current measurement methods for growers are inadequate. Although seed tubers may appear similar, their internal developmental conditions can lead to varying crop outcomes. A 2026 scientific review highlights the lack of fast, reliable tests and suggests that physiological readiness should complement traditional seed quality assessments. The industry must better understand and manage the biological condition of seed for optimal growth.

September 6, 2026

Why does potato breeding really take so long? The genetics behind a 15-year problem

The potato breeding process typically spans about 15 years due to various biological and operational bottlenecks. Factors such as the complex genetics of highly heterozygous potatoes, the vegetative multiplication of commercial varieties, and the intricacies of evaluating traits contribute to the timeline. Innovations like genotyping, diploid breeding, and fixation-restitution methods aim to streamline these processes, enhancing efficiency and potentially shortening the time taken to deliver new varieties to growers.

August 24, 2026

The potato paradox: Why ‘low sugar’ is not the same as ‘low GI’

Potatoes contain little simple sugar, but labeling them as “low sugar” can mislead consumers regarding their blood glucose impact. The primary carbohydrate in potatoes is starch, which can significantly raise blood glucose levels after digestion. Various factors like processing, cooking methods, and potato variety influence glycaemic response. Clear, precise labeling is essential in the potato industry to help consumers understand the nutritional implications and avoid misconceptions related to terms like “low sugar” or “low GI.”

August 21, 2026

‘The algorithm and the acre’: Why the future of potato breeding will still be decided in farmers’ fields

The GAIN-RT initiative, announced on August 18, 2026, aims to enhance potato breeding through artificial intelligence, focusing on climate resilience and disease resistance. Collaborating with institutions such as the International Potato Center and KALRO, GAIN-RT will combine genomic and environmental data to improve selection processes. However, concerns remain about AI’s limitations and the necessity for local insights, training, and effective seed systems to ensure successful variety adoption by farmers.

August 19, 2026

Global partnership launches AI project to accelerate development of climate-resilient potato and sweetpotato varieties

A global initiative named GAIN-RT has been launched to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) in the rapid development of crop varieties, primarily focused on potatoes and later sweetpotatoes. This collaboration includes the International Potato Center, the James Hutton Institute, and African partners, aiming to address challenges posed by climate change, pests, and diseases. The project also emphasizes training for scientists, particularly women, to enhance local research capabilities and improve food security.

August 19, 2026

The potato industry’s next water challenge: Learning to produce more value from every drop

Recent research from Europe and North America reveals that increased irrigation does not guarantee better potato yields, challenging common practices. Factors such as crop stage, cultivar, and irrigation method influence outcomes significantly. Findings indicate that effective water management relies on precise decisions regarding irrigation timing and amount, rather than general assumptions, emphasizing economic productivity over simple yield maximization. The industry should embrace a holistic approach to enhance drought resilience.

August 18, 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

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

Western potato varieties in Egypt: Can Russet, Innovator, Santana and similar varieties succeed?

Egypt can successfully grow Western potato varieties, but their success hinges on local climate suitability, irrigation, seed quality, and market needs. Some varieties, like Santana and Innovator, have demonstrated potential in the country’s processing sector. However, caution is advised with varieties like Russet Burbank due to their specific agronomic demands. Ultimately, disciplined trials and understanding local conditions are essential for commercial viability.

June 22, 2026

Potato cultivation at a crossroads: The future crop will be grown with more precision, more resilience and a deeper respect for soil

Potato cultivation is a challenging endeavor, sensitive to climate variations and agricultural practices. As climate instability, water scarcity, and disease pressures rise, growers must adopt smarter, more resilient systems. Effective water management, soil health, and integrated pest strategies are crucial. While advancements in technology and variety development are important, they must be paired with comprehensive management approaches to ensure the potato remains a vital global food source amid increasing demands.

June 22, 2026

FAO Treaty Secretary highlights potato genetic resources as shared global heritage

On International Potato Day 2026, Kent Nnadozie emphasized the potato’s role as a vital food source and genetic resource, essential for global food security. Celebrating its cultural significance and agricultural contributions, he urged for continued investment in conservation and research. Highlighting successful collaborative projects that benefit farmers, the call to action advocates for renewed cooperation in preserving potato diversity to ensure future resilience and adaptability in changing environments.

June 22, 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

Potatoes on the moon? Oregon State University scientists show it could work

Researchers at Oregon State University have demonstrated that potatoes can grow in lunar regolith, with minimal compost required for decent harvests. While pure moon dirt severely stunted growth, adding just 5% compost yielded relatively healthy plants. The overall nutrition of moon-grown potatoes was comparable to those grown on Earth. This research suggests the potential for cultivating food on the moon, although environmental factors remain a challenge.

April 2, 2026

EUROPLANT ‘drives market-oriented potato varieties across Europe’

EUROPLANT showcases its innovative capabilities by turning advanced breeding results into successful market launches through collaboration across its European teams. Notable varieties include CORINNA and MONIQUE, which excel in the ware potato market, and JELLY, known for its robust dual-purpose performance and drought tolerance. VINDIKA, featuring dual nematode resistance, has also gained traction in the French market, emphasizing quality and production reliability.

April 2, 2026

Solynta and EW GROUP reach major funding agreement to boost Hybrid True Potato Seed commercialization

Dutch hybrid potato breeder Solynta has secured major growth funding, with a majority stake acquisition by EW Group. This partnership aims to double global potato yields while reducing land use and crop protection needs. The funding will enhance Solynta’s hybrid potato breeding platform and accelerate technology adoption. Both companies emphasize the importance of innovation to address agricultural challenges and improve global food security.

February 26, 2026

Sustainable spuds: Lower-carbon potatoes hit Britain’s shelves as Branston partners with Tesco on net-zero project

A pioneering low carbon concept farm in Lincolnshire has grown its first crop of sustainable Georgina potatoes, set to hit Tesco stores this week, in collaboration with Branston. Utilizing innovative techniques like circular economy fertilisers and HVO fuel, the farm achieves over 50% lower carbon emissions while maintaining quality. The initiative aims to advance net-zero farming practices and will explore further innovations for future crops to enhance sustainability.

February 25, 2026

UK grower backs collaborative approach to resilient potato varieties

Andrew Francis, managing director of Home Farm Nacton, emphasizes the importance of a collaborative approach in developing new potato varieties. Involvement from growers early in the process helps identify potential issues and maximizes outcomes. Francis collaborates with multiple packers and retailers, including Manor Fresh for enhancing Maris Piper. He also advocates for workshops among growers to share knowledge. Chairing the LEAF Marque Technical Advisory Committee, he underscores collaboration in improving environmental standards alongside farm economics.

February 19, 2026

Albert Bartlett expands range with White Roosters: Limited-edition line is going into Sainsbury’s nationwide

Albert Barlett has introduced a limited-edition White Rooster potato bag, as reported by Michael Barker on Fruitnet. Available in 1.5kg bags at select Sainsbury’s stores in the UK, this variant complements the Red Rooster range. It boasts a light, fluffy texture and smooth white skin, making it versatile for various dishes and positioning it as a strong alternative to the Maris Piper.

February 16, 2026

Canada: New potato varieties show signs of better nitrogen efficiency in Cluster 4 trials

The Fruit and Vegetable Growers of Canada (FVGC) is spotlighting a potential shift in how potato varieties could be selected in the years ahead: not only for yield, quality, storability, and disease profile, but also for how efficiently they use nitrogen. Early multi-province research suggests that nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) may become a key selection trait for potato varieties. Recent findings indicate newer cultivars could outperform older ones in yield while requiring less nitrogen.

January 27, 2026

Punjab scientists develop potato variety capable of withstanding smog conditions

Scientists in Punjab, Pakistan, have developed a potato variety, Ijaz-22, that endures smoggy conditions, addressing concerns over worsening air pollution impacting agriculture. With Punjab cities frequently ranking among the world’s most polluted during winter, the Potato Research Institute has created 12 fog-tolerant potato varieties. The focus now shifts to further enhancing smog tolerance to mitigate delays in harvests and reduce crop vulnerability to pests and diseases.

December 16, 2025

The rise of baby potatoes: How small potatoes became a global sensation

This article traces how baby potatoes evolved from incidental “smalls” into a deliberately bred, tightly specified premium segment. It explains the small-at-maturity ideotype, tougher agronomy and handling, cautious use of marker-assisted selection, and the economics of “tonnes in band”. It also explores packaging, branding, and multi-channel demand from retail, foodservice, and meal kits, arguing that small potatoes now test the industry’s ability to run high-value, disciplined, system-based programs worldwide today.

November 15, 2025

Women shaping tomorrow’s varieties: Inside the quiet revolution in potato breeding

Efforts are underway to increase women’s roles in potato breeding, transforming the field with diverse perspectives. Traditionally dominated by men, women’s contributions are now recognized, as they possess valuable insights regarding traits that matter to household cooking and nutrition. Initiatives like the Women in Potato Breeding platform aim to uplift female breeders, enhancing gender-responsive breeding practices. This shift not only benefits equality but also ensures breeding aligns better with the needs of farmers and consumers.

November 14, 2025

CIP with the participation of Indigenous communities develops late blight resistant potato variety for Peru

The disease that led to the Irish Potato Famine still causes significant losses in potato crops, costing about $10 billion annually. Ahead of COP30, the International Potato Center has introduced CIP-Asiryq, a new late blight-resistant variety developed with Indigenous communities, requiring fewer fungicides and cooking faster than the Yungay variety. This innovation aims to enhance food security and provide options for smallholder farmers facing climate change challenges.

November 10, 2025

EarthFresh rolls out ‘Butter Potatoes’ across the U.S., positioning no-butter-needed spuds for everyday cooking

EarthFresh has launched a premium Butter Potatoes lineup in the U.S. and Canada, featuring Butter Golds, Butter Reds, and Butter Russets. Developed over a decade, these potatoes offer a naturally creamy texture and rich flavor. Supported by sensory testing and chef collaboration, consumer interest is high, with 85% showing intent to buy. Updated packaging enhances sustainability. Retailers can find more at EarthFreshFoods.com/Butter.

November 10, 2025