Sustainability is Key for the Success of Potato Processors

Major potato processors in Europe are committed to sustainable practices and investments are being made in new techniques to benefit crops. One such example, presented as a case study during this week’s European Potato Processors’ Association (EUPPA) Conference in Brussels is that of Lamb Weston/Meijer.

The company’s guest speaker at the event, Jolanda Soons-Dings, discussed how crop yield and quality can be optimized by using innovative irrigation techniques such as drip irrigation systems, which allow water and nutrients to drip regularly and directly to the plant roots, through a network of irrigation lines. According to studies made by the company, this increases water efficiency by up to 50%, compared to classic irrigation techniques, like the rain guns.

“One of the main benefits of drip irrigation is that we are able to increase yield per hectare and improve quality consistency with the same amount of water. With drip irrigation, we need less land and water to produce the same amount of potatoes. To test the commercial validity of drip irrigation in potatoes, we have been closely collaborating with our growers and suppliers. Multiple trials were run in our main sourcing areas in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Austria to better understand the benefits and demonstrate these to farmers in different regions,” Jolanda Soons-Dings said.

A panel was held during the event, concerning sustainable practices by potato processors, challenges and solutions to achieve success via innovation. EUPPA members from Agrarfrost, Lamb Weston/Meijer, McCain, Mydibel, Pizzoli, Agristo and Farm Frites Poland took part in the discussion. Also present at the event were Jan Huitema, member of the European Parliament and Willi Schulz-Greve, on behalf of the European Commission.

Don’t miss the next issue of Potato Processing International, for an exclusive interview with the president of EUPPA, on the current state of the potato processing industry and of the association itself.