News
Data shows US seed exports surging in Central America
U.S. seed potato exports saw major gains in Central America from July 2024 to March 2025, with a 61% increase compared to the prior year. Long-term variety trials continue in Cuba, while Panama, Nicaragua and Uruguay all imported U.S. seed potatoe... more
New batch frying system helps maintain temperature control
PPM Technologies, a member of Duravant’s Food Sorting and Handling group, has introduced its new BatchWright frying system for kettle-style potato chips and other root vegetable snacks. BatchWright produces up to 650 pounds per hour while mainta... more
Agricultural workers in spotlight amid ongoing immigration raids
In comments during a June 12 news conference, President Donald Trump seemed to suggest support for changes to immigration enforcement that would avoid targeting farm workers. Immigration raids are drawing protests in major U.S. cities such as Los ... more
Senate committee budget proposals would increase specialty crop funding
The U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry has released legislative text detailing proposals for a massive budget reconciliation package that dials back some House-approved changes to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (... more
Northland Potato Growers awards trio of scholarships
The Northland Potato Growers Research and Education Foundation has awarded a trio of $2,500 scholarships to students who will continue their education. The three winners of the annual scholarships are: Kaydence VanRay, daughter of Jane and Ma... more
Potatoes return to list of produce testing positive for pesticide residue
Potatoes have returned to an environmental group’s list of fruits and vegetables testing positive for potentially harmful pesticide residue. Health advocacy organization Environmental Working Group (EWG) has produced the annual Dirty Dozen since... more
Chitosan-based agriscience company taps new global sales leader
Tidal Grow AgriScience has named an industry veteran as its new vice president of global sales to help promote the company’s portfolio of chitosan technologies and biofertilizers. Gaylnn Beer, who brings nearly three decades of experience in agr... more
California-based equipment manufacturer acquires french fry processor
Food industry equipment manufacturer Heat and Control has acquired an England-based processor which provides custom solutions for products including french fries. Established in 2013, Fabcon Food Systems, based in Norwich, England, offers solution... more
New multistate coalition calls for AEWR calculation transparency
A new five-state, 30-organization coalition is calling for transparency on how the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) is calculated, arguing that current rate increases are unsustainable for specialty crop growers. The Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Gro... more
US potato export volume dips from July 2024-March 2025
U.S. potato export volumes increased for frozen, fresh and seed potatoes from July 2024 through March 2025, while export volumes fell for dehydrated potatoes and potato chips during that period. Data from the U.S. Department of Commerce shows the ... more
