Regulatory Developments, Innovative Research, and Farewells at Euroseeds Event Hosted by Agrico
On May 14-15, Euroseeds held its spring Section Potatoes meeting, graciously hosted by Agrico. This gathering brought together key stakeholders in the potato industry, including farmers, agronomists, entrepreneurs, plant protection managers, fertilizer producers, scientists, and food industry specialists.
The meeting focused on the latest regulatory developments concerning Plant Reproductive Material (PRM), New Genomic Techniques (NGT), and plant health. Members engaged in discussions on crop-specific topics, which are critical for driving the potato industry’s progress.
A significant highlight of the meeting was the update on the ongoing GeneBEcon EU project. Researchers involved in this project are utilizing CRISPR technology to develop a new, improved potato variety with customized starch quality and Potato Virus Y (PVY) resistance. This innovation promises to enhance crop resilience and quality, providing substantial benefits to farmers and the broader agricultural sector.
Attendees also had the opportunity to visit Agrico Research. Peter Oldenkamp, Director of Agrico Research, delivered an informative presentation outlining the company’s structure and activities. This was followed by a comprehensive tour of the company’s facilities, showcasing Agrico’s commitment to research and development in potato breeding and cultivation.
The meeting also marked a significant moment for the Section Potatoes Organization (SPO) members, who bid farewell to the former CEO, Jan van Hoogen. His contributions to the organization and the industry were acknowledged with gratitude.
The event was a testament to the collaborative spirit and shared dedication within the potato sector. Euroseeds and Agrico extended their thanks to all SPO members for their valuable input and participation in the Section’s activities, and to Agrico for their exceptional hospitality.
