A Collaborative Effort to Secure a Sustainable Supply of Potato Seed for Global Production
McCain Foods has long been at the forefront of potato production, but before any French fries make their way to the consumer’s plate, there is a complex and strategic process involved in ensuring a reliable supply of high-quality seed potatoes. Daniel Metheringham, a key figure in McCain’s Global Agriculture team, highlights this intricate work, which has been eight years in the making.
At the core of McCain’s strategy is the production of plantlets, mini-tubers, and seed potatoes. These foundational elements are crucial for maintaining the consistency and quality that McCain Foods is known for in the global market. This past week, members of the McCain Global Agriculture team gathered in Montrose, Scotland, to review progress and exchange ideas.
Metheringham emphasized the importance of the Montrose site, which plays a pivotal role in the company’s seed business. “The meetings are great, but being at the Montrose site and getting some time on the farm is always the highlight,” he said. The team not only discussed developments in potato seed production but also focused on safety protocols and the integration of new technologies to enhance efficiency.
These efforts are part of a larger initiative to ensure that McCain’s Great Britain (GB) operations maintain an assured supply of high-quality potato seed for years to come. The company’s commitment to innovation and safety, paired with a global exchange of knowledge, strengthens its position in the potato industry.
Collaboration within the McCain network remains a key driver of success. Metheringham expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to connect with both familiar and new faces, underscoring the value of these meetings in learning from different regions across the McCain network. Each team brings unique insights, helping the company refine its practices and advance its global operations.
As the McCain team continues to push forward, their focus on developing a sustainable and efficient seed potato supply chain will play a critical role in meeting the growing demand for their products worldwide.
