Videos

NAPSO webinar tackles final-stage potato storage challenges with expert precision

The North American Potato Storage Organization (NAPSO) hosted a webinar titled “The Final Countdown: Smart Storage Strategies for Late Season Potatoes,” offering valuable insights for growers facing critical storage challenges. Presentations by Eric Evans and Dr. Sastry Jayanty emphasized key practices for quality preservation, including environmental control, sprout management, and minimizing damage. Upcoming NAPSO events promise further expert discussions on potato storage innovations and techniques.

May 17, 2025

Genetic breakthroughs at Otago University set to transform New Zealand’s potato industry

In a recent webinar, Dr. Rowan Herridge, a Research Fellow at the University of Otago in New Zealand discussed innovative potato breeding techniques, highlighting the challenges posed by potatoes’ tetraploid nature. He explained traditional methods and introduced New Breeding Techniques (NBTs), including gene editing and F1 hybrid breeding, which enable enhanced disease resistance and genetic gains. These advancements, being developed at Otago University, promise sustainable improvements for New Zealand potato growers.

December 14, 2024

A tribute to all farmers around the world: ‘And on the 8th day, God made a farmer…’

The content of this news story revisits a 1978 speech by broadcaster Paul Harvey, expressing the essential qualities of a farmer. It illustrates the dedication, hard work, and emotional resilience required in farming, emphasizing the farmer’s pivotal role in family and community life. The speech gained significant attention upon its original delivery and continues to resonate with audiences today, highlighting the timelessness of its message.

December 4, 2024

Video: Potato farming and processing – Start to finish

The YouTube video titled “Potato Farming & Processing – Start to Finish” by Farm World outlines the detailed journey of potatoes from farm to table. It covers essential stages such as land preparation, planting, harvesting, curing, and processing, emphasizing the meticulous care involved in each step. With insightful visuals, the video underscores the labor and technology essential for producing high-quality potatoes, making it an enlightening watch.

November 27, 2024

Video: Some of the most unbelievable agriculture machines pushing the boundaries of farming technology

Explore agriculture like never before in a captivating YouTube video published by Smart Tech, showcasing some of the most incredible farming machines and tools that are transforming the industry today. From advanced tractors to precision irrigation systems and more, these innovations enhance crop cultivation through increased efficiency and sustainability. Witness the awe-inspiring capabilities of these game-changing machines that exemplify power, innovation, and versatility in modern farming.

November 25, 2024

The future of food processing: TNA’s industrial XR solution makes Industry 5.0 a reality for food manufacturers

TNA Solutions has introduced the tna intelli-assist, an immersive digital service for the food industry that employs extended reality (XR) technology. This tool facilitates the creation of digital twins for manufacturing sites to ensure efficient project planning and minimal disruption during integration. Enhanced collaboration through virtual platforms optimizes stakeholder engagement. The service aligns with Industry 5.0, emphasizing human-centric solutions for improved production efficiency.

November 20, 2024

The 2024 Idaho potato harvest: Start to finish chronicled on YouTube channel ‘Rocky Mountain Farmer’

Ronald Esplin Farms in Idaho showcases the 2024 potato harvest on their YouTube channel, “Rocky Mountain Farmer.” Two recent videos detail the start and conclusion of the harvest, emphasizing the meticulous processes involved. The initial video highlights preparations and high-tech equipment, while the follow-up captures the final day’s teamwork and potato grading.

November 9, 2024

The art and science of fry production: Exploring the journey of McDonald’s french fries, from farm to fryer

The video “How French Fries are Made in Mega Factory With Modern Food Processing Technology” explores the intricate process of producing McDonald’s French fries. It details the sourcing of specific Russet Burbank potatoes, sustainable farming practices, harvesting, processing, and quality control. Highlighting technology and care involved, it underscores McDonald’s commitment to maintaining fry quality and sustainability while delivering this beloved fast-food item worldwide.

November 6, 2024

Unlocking potato storage insights: NAPSO launches dedicated YouTube channel

The North America Potato Storage Organization (NAPSO) has launched an official YouTube channel to advance the dissemination of potato storage knowledge and best practices. The channel will feature expert-led webinars, in-depth videos on NAPSO’s initiatives, research, and practical storage advice. It aims to foster collaboration and innovation within the industry, providing high-quality, accessible content for professionals and enthusiasts.

August 27, 2024

Tayler Farms: A legacy of dedication and quality in New Zealand’s potato industry

Nick Tayler continues the legacy of his family’s potato farm in New Zealand, as showcased in Copper Kettle Chips’ “Meet our Farmers” series. Starting in the 1960s, the farm’s partnership with Copper Kettle is grounded in a commitment to quality and integrity. Nick and his family, including staff seen as family, face challenges like weather and pests, but find profound satisfaction in their high-quality produce. Nick’s deep connection to his produce extends beyond farming, celebrating the enjoyment of his potatoes at social gatherings.

April 30, 2024

The soil-plant connection: A comprehensive guide to soil health and plant vitality

Joel Williams, a plant and soil health educator in the UK, presented “Soils and Nutrition” delving into the complex relationship between soil health and plant nutrition. He emphasized the critical role of soil in supporting healthy plants, discussed global soil degradation, and advocated for a holistic approach to soil management. Williams explained the role of plants in soil health and outlined practical strategies for improvement.

December 26, 2023

Soil: ‘The wonder stuff beneath your feet’

A BBC Ideas video underlines the importance of soil, often overlooked despite its crucial role in life on Earth. The soil hosts an estimated 50,000 species of microscopic organisms per gram, forming a complex ecosystem of mutual benefit between creatures like earthworms, microorganisms, and plants. Soil growth is slow, taking over 100 years to form just half a centimeter. Despite being a valuable carbon store and a vital part of Earth’s nitrogen and carbon cycle, it is under threat due to intensive farming, chemical contamination, and urbanization.

November 25, 2023

E-Planner: A new tool to help farmers enhance their farm environmental decisions

The UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology introduces the E-Planner, a free tool designed to guide farmers in sustainable land decisions. In a video discussion, Marek Nowakowski and developer John Redhead explore the app’s capabilities, from identifying optimal habitats for wildlife conservation to using heat maps for environmental actions. Aiming to merge profitable agriculture with wildlife preservation, the E-Planner offers a promising step towards a greener farming future.

October 28, 2023

Potato passion: Unraveling the Germans’ deep-rooted affection for potatoes

The potato, originating from the Andes, has become a cornerstone of German cuisine and culture. In a DW Euromaxx episode, Hannah Hummel explores Germany’s 270 unique potato varieties and their deep-rooted significance. From traditional dishes like roast potatoes and potato salad to the annual consumption of 56 kilos per person, Germany’s adoration for this tuber is unparalleled. Farmers like Sebastian Klass equate harvesting potatoes to discovering “gold nuggets,” symbolizing their treasured status.

August 21, 2023

Mintec: UK crop update

In this market update video from Mintec, pricing analyst for Potatoes, Harry Campbell talks through the high prices in the market, delayed harvest and gives a general update on what market players’ thoughts on the potato industry are. Mr. Campbell says a great number of buyers are currently chasing the new crop. Prices are souring at record levels, with the highest prices ever recorded on the Mintec Analytics platform.

August 5, 2023

Innovation in European potato production: How modern machines are reshaping the future of potato farming

This article, based on The Engine’s video “How Are 100 Million Tons of Potato Harvested? | Agriculture Technology”, explores the revolution in potato farming in Europe, driven by advanced machinery and technology. It delves into the impact of precision planting, cultivation, care, maintenance, harvesting, and processing on efficiency, productivity, and sustainability.

July 3, 2023

Video: ‘How a potato becomes a Lamb Weston fry’

Have you ever wondered how a humble potato transforms into a mouthwatering french fry? Lamb Weston, one of the world’s largest producers of frozen french fries and potato products, provides an answer in a concise YouTube video that traces the journey from the field to your plate.

February 15, 2023

Video: CIP – Innovations towards sustainable agri-food system transformation

For almost 50 years, the International Potato Center’s (CIP) research and development work in potato and sweetpotato agri-food systems has contributed to greater food and nutrition security, and economic growth, while conserving today’s biodiversity for the future. This video brings together some of the most achievements and impacts for millions of small-scale farmers and resource-poor consumers worldwide.

December 26, 2022

Canada: ‘Hard work and delight’: Ontario potato farm featured in virtual reality tour

Sunrise Potatoes near Alliston in Ontario is one of three farms included in a new virtual reality tour that was filmed earlier this year using 360 degree cameras and virtual reality technology. “It’s wonderful to showcase the hard work and delight that comes from planting and harvesting a successful crop, and to know that so many Canadians will have a chance to take our tour,” said Kevin Brubacher, general manager of the Ontario Potato Board, in a statement.

December 10, 2022

Multimillion dollar programme in New Zealand aims to provide growers with a nitrogen management tool

Sustainable Vegetable Systems (SVS) is a $7.5 million dollar multi-tiered research programme, funded by New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries, led and co-funded by Potatoes New Zealand in collaboration with the Vegetable Research & Innovation Board and Horticulture NZ. SVS provides the data and subsequent modelling of vegetable nutrient uptake and nitrogen leaching. Potatoes New Zealand recently uploaded three videos on its YouTube channel to explain the SVS programme goals and activities.

November 27, 2022

Webinar: Elea specialists to discuss benefits, ROI of PEF technology for processors

Elea will host a webinar on Tuesday, September 27th during which participants will learn more about the company’s PEF Advantage systems and the benefits of raw product treated with Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) technology. Elea specialists will guide participants through the production process of chips and French fries – with a focus on the numerous benefits of PEF technology during each phase of the process.

September 19, 2022

Eagle Eye Produce celebrates trailblazing Idaho potato grower

In the latest edition of its Grower Spotlight feature, Eagle Eye Produce celebrates potato grower Reed Searle in Eastern Idaho. Eagle Eye says on its YouTube channel, “Reed is an integral part of our varietal potato program. When most potato farmers in Idaho were focused on russet potatoes, Reed saw an opportunity to do something different – he focused on growing red and yellow potatoes.

August 5, 2022

‘That’s farming’: British potato farmer paralysed after accident in potato store

Tim Papworth is a third-generation British potato farmer and farm accident survivor who “learnt safety by accident”. Some years ago, he was changing a light bulb in a potato store when he slipped, fell and sustained life-changing injuries, which have impacted him mentally and physically. Tim had a titanium plate fitted on one side of his skull, but fortunately made a full recovery apart from impaired hearing in his left ear.

August 2, 2022

How bad can it get? Australian boxer clobbered by a kangaroo in ‘roo-rumble’…

If you’ve watched any Australian animal documentaries you’ll know kangaroos are not to be messed with, no matter how adorable they may look. In fact, kangaroos are stronger than humans in every aspect except their arms. One man learnt this the hard way,,,

May 31, 2022

Video: Potatoes USA CMO discusses fresh potato access to Mexico

In this “Keeping it Current” video episode produced and published by Potatoes USA, the industry body’s Chief Marketing Officer, John Toaspern discusses the impact of gaining fresh potato access to all of Mexico, the years of effort that went into this, and the continued work that needs be done to keep the market open.

May 13, 2022