Impactful Developments in Plant Growth Regulators Propel Potato Industry Forward

1,4GROUP has made significant strides in 2023 and beyond, shaping the global potato trade with pivotal moves in plant growth regulator products. These initiatives have not only secured essential products like chlorpropham (CIPC) for North American markets but also expanded international trade opportunities through regulatory advancements in Japan.

In response to the non-renewal of CIPC’s registration in Europe and the UK, 1,4GROUP shifted its manufacturing base to the United States. This strategic relocation ensures continued availability of CIPC, approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Canadian Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA). Steve Elfering, CEO of 1,4GROUP, expressed confidence in this transition, emphasizing its importance in maintaining high-quality sprout control products for North American potato growers.

Simultaneously, the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare (MHLW) introduced a maximum residue level of 15 ppm for 1,4-DMN in potatoes. This regulatory milestone, based on thorough health assessments, affirms the safety of 1,4-DMN residues in potatoes and is expected to bolster international potato trade. Jeanette VonKrosigk, Global Regulatory Affairs Director at 1,4GROUP, highlighted the significance of this decision in facilitating smoother global trade practices and enhancing storage methodologies worldwide.

John Hren, Global Sales & Marketing Director, emphasized collaboration with market partners to seamlessly integrate expanded uses of 1,4-DMN into operational frameworks, underscoring a commitment to innovation and regulatory compliance.

These strategic advancements by 1,4GROUP underscore their dedication to supporting the potato industry with reliable, effective products while navigating evolving regulatory landscapes to foster global trade growth and operational excellence.

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Viktor Kovalev CEO
POTATOES NEWS Viktor Kovalev is the founder of Potatoes.News and the creator of the International Potato Tour (IPT) — a global multimedia project that connects potato farmers, processors, researchers, and agribusiness companies across more than 20 countries. Viktor writes about potato production, processing technologies, storage, seed breeding, export markets, innovations, and sustainable agriculture. His work combines journalism, field research, and video storytelling, giving readers and viewers a unique perspective on the global potato industry. Areas of expertise: Global potato market trends Seed potato production and certification Potato processing (chips, flakes, fries, starch) Smart farming and agri-technologies Storage, logistics, and export Interviews and field reports from leading producers