Worldwide, almost two-thirds of processing potatoes are stockpiled in bulk stores, with the remainder in boxes, while tubers destined for the fresh sector are almost exclusively stored in boxes.

Market experts also say that bulk storage is particularly suitable for storing potatoes in large quantities. Pressure ventilation through a grooved floor is optimal, because of its homogeneity. In addition, by combining this ventilation with cooling, heating, and humidification systems, any climatic situation can be achieved to properly dry, cure, and store potatoes.

On the other hand, there has been much talk recently about the benefits of storing potatoes in boxes as an alternative to bulk storage. Many companies are now working with growers to integrate specialized box processing equipment within their current potato handling operations to bring added value and better stock control for growers willing to embrace the benefits and shift their current storage practices.

Tolsma-Grisnich B.V. and its Drive Towards Innovative Potato Storage Technology

The Dutch company has a long experience with developing storage techniques for potatoes. Their experts have developed some of the most modern technologies for storing in bulk or boxes. The combination of technology and storage advice results in the highest possible storage efficiency for customers. Besides bulk storage, Tolsma specializes in box storage with forced ventilation (drying or suction wall), and space ventilation systems.

Tolsma also develops innovative storage technology for automated climate control. The advanced, user-friendly process technology controls, fans, hatches, heaters, and mechanical cooling based on the temperature, RH, and CO2 concentration measured, resulting in the best possible storage climate.

“Our company and solutions are different than others because we focus on energy management and what is actually going on with the product while it is in storage,” said a company representative recently. At the same time, Dim Jan de Visser, CEO of Tolsma-Grisnich added: “With energy-efficient EC fans, designed and produced in-house by our research and development department, the company wants to achieve the highest efficiency and the lowest production costs for their customers. The Grisnich product range is ready to respond to the more complex demands coming from the processing industry, whereby the engineering of total systems (concept) will meet the trends towards scale enlargement, professionalization, and digitalization.”

You can read the rest of this article in your complimentary e-copy of Issue 3 of Potato Business Digital magazine, which you can access by clicking here.