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FPS Food Process Solutions and GEM Equipment of Oregon Launches VersaFry as Latest Collaborative Innovation to Target Growing Snack and Appetizer Market. FPS Food Process Solutions (“FPS”), a global leader in turn-key food processing solutions, and subsidiary GEM Equipment of Oregon (“GEM”), launches VersaFry as the latest collaborative innovation, specifically targeted to the growing snack and appetizer market. Known as GEM VersaFry, it is the latest innovation in fryer design – engineered for maintenance, safety and durability. With the ability to handle a variety of product shapes, consistencies and textures, the GEM VersaFry is excellent at handling specialty potato products, poultry, seafood, assorted vegetables, baked goods and other high value products requiring precision frying before further processing. The GEM VersaFry offers Operation and Sanitation Modes, highlighting attention to detail such as oil quality, fire prevention safety measures and cleanability. Some of the key defining features include: PEEK/Teflon Adjustable Infeed Conveyor for smooth transfer and batter setting under high oil temperatures Long-Life Main Conveyor designed for easy splicing and reduced contamination risk Hood Raise Screw Jack System for full kettle access during sanitation and maintenance Oil Recirculation Pump to maintain oil level and temperature consistency Dual Crumb Removal with surface skimmer and bottom return belt for extended oil life Every fryer is built with robustness and longevity as top priorities, to provide customers with the lowest cost of ownership. Combined with FPS’s foothold in key industry food sectors and established service and support network, the GEM VersaFry is already breaking ground in major food processing plants. “GEM Equipment continues to astound – with their deep engineering expertise and robust workmanship, we are truly collaborative in every sense of the word. This is what it means to offer customers a “one-stop shop” for their food processing needs,” says Jeffrey Chang, President, FPS Food Process Solutions Corp. ### About FPS Food Process Solutions FPS Food Process Solutions is a global leader in turn-key food processing solutions, serving customers across six continents. Founded in 2010, FPS employs over 1,000 professionals worldwide and operates more than 1,280,000 ft² (119,000 m²) of space across 23 locations, including its Canadian headquarters, manufacturing facilities, and international sales offices. Through our subsidiaries and strategic partnerships, FPS delivers comprehensive, end-to-end processing solutions—providing a true “one-stop shop” for food processors around the world. For more information, go to https://www.fpscorp.ca/ For more information about GEM, got to https://www.gemequipment.com/

FPS Food Process Solutions (“FPS”), एक वैश्विक नेता टर्नकी खाद्य प्रसंस्करण समाधानों में, और उसकी सहायक कंपनी GEM Equipment of Oregon (“GEM”), VersaFry को नवीनतम सहयोगी नवाचार के रूप में लॉन्च करती है, जो विशेष रूप से बढ़ते स्नैक और एपेटाइज़र बाज़ार को लक्षित करता है। GEM VersaFry के रूप में जाना जाने वाला यह फ्रायर डिज़ाइन में नवीनतम नवाचार है – जिसे रखरखाव, सुरक्षा और दीर्घायु के लिए इंजीनियर किया गया है। विभिन्न प्रकार के उत्पाद आकारों, स्थिरताओं और बनावटों को संभालने की क्षमता के साथ, GEM VersaFry विशिष्ट आलू उत्पादों, पोल्ट्री, समुद्री भोजन, विविध सब्ज़ियाँ, बेक किए गए सामान और अन्य उच्च मूल्य वाले उत्पादों के फ्रायिंग को सटीकता से आगे के प्रसंस्करण से पहले संभालने में उत्कृष्ट है। GEM VersaFry ऑपरेशन और सैनिटेशन मोड देता है, जो तेल की गुणवत्ता, अग्नि-रोधी सुरक्षा उपायों और साफ-सफाई जैसी विवरणों पर ध्यान केंद्रित करता है। कुछ प्रमुख परिभाषित विशेषताएं शामिल हैं: PEEK/Teflon समायोज्य इनफीड कन्वेयर — उच्च तेल तापमान के तहत चिकना ट्रांसफर और बैटर सेटिंग के लिए दीर्घायु मुख्य कन्वेयर ...
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An Analysis of Potato Exports to Nepal (2024-2025). The global potato trade is often dominated by narratives surrounding major processing nations like Belgium, the Netherlands, and the United States. However, a significant and consistent trade dynamic exists in South Asia, specifically between the potato powerhouse of India and its mountainous neighbor, Nepal. While Nepal is a substantial producer of potatoes in its own right, it remains heavily reliant on imports to meet domestic consumption needs. Based on trade data from late 2024 through late 2025, Nepal has solidified its position as the primary destination for Indian fresh potatoes, providing a stabilizing force for Indian exporters amidst fluctuating demand from other global regions. Domestic Production Context To understand the export market, one must first look at Nepal’s domestic capacity. Nepal is a significant player in the global potato sector. In 2023, the country produced 3.48 million tonnes of potatoes. This marked a steady increase in production capabilities, representing a 2.3% increase over 2022 levels, and a continuation of growth from 2.69 million tonnes in 2017. The scale of Nepal’s production is impressive given its topography. As the location of the highest point in the world, Nepal’s ability to grow nearly 3.5 million tonnes of tubers highlights the crop’s resilience and importance to the local diet. The land area dedicated to potato cultivation in Nepal has also seen expansion. By 2023, the harvested area had reached approximately 211,505 hectares, an increase of 3.8% from the previous year. Despite this robust domestic output, the consumption demands of the population exceed local supply, necessitating substantial imports. This deficit creates a vital trade corridor, primarily supplied by India, the world’s second-largest potato producer. The India-Nepal Trade Corridor: A Year in Review Throughout the 2024 and 2025 calendar years, Nepal consistently appeared as the top destination for Indian fresh (ware) potatoes. While Indian exporters successfully diversified into the Middle East and Southeast Asia for frozen products, the fresh trade remained regionally focused, with Nepal acting as the anchor market. Late 2024: The Anchor Market By the end of 2024, the reliance on the Nepalese market was evident. In the 12 months ending November 2024, India exported 219,711 tonnes of fresh potatoes to Nepal. Although this represented a 16.5% decrease compared to the previous year, Nepal remained the largest single market for Indian tubers. In November 2024 alone, exports to Nepal stood at 28,818 tonnes, a figure almost identical to the same month in the previous year, indicating a stable, baseline demand that persists regardless of broader market volatility. Early 2025: A Strong Start As the calendar turned to 2025, the trade volume surged. In January 2025, Indian exports to Nepal reached 15,559 tonnes. This was a significant 53.3% increase compared to January 2024. This surge occurred even as Indian exports to other neighbors faced challenges; for example, exports to Bangladesh were nonexistent in the same month. This highlighted Nepal’s role as a reliable partner during periods when other regional markets might be inaccessible or fluctuating. By March 2025, the trade momentum continued. Nepal imported 9,022 tonnes of Indian potatoes, a 12.4% increase compared to March 2024. At this stage in the season, cumulative 12-month exports to Nepal stood at 238,198 tonnes, maintaining a consistent level with the previous year’s 236,881 tonnes. Spring 2025: Seasonal Adjustments and Price Pressures The second quarter of 2025 saw a temporary contraction in trade volumes, likely influenced by seasonal harvest patterns and rising export prices. In April 2025, exports to Nepal dipped to 7,445 tonnes, a 23.7% decrease compared to April 2024. Despite the drop in volume, Nepal retained its position as the top destination. This period coincided with rising prices for Indian potatoes. The average export price to Nepal in April 2025 was ₹13,161 per tonne (approximately US$154), which was 10.8% higher than the price a year prior. The downward trend in volume continued into May 2025. Exports dropped to 5,749 tonnes, a sharp 49.3% decline compared to the 11,334 tonnes shipped in May 2024. This reduction occurred within the context of a general slowdown in Indian ware exports, which fell 4.9% overall in the 12 months leading to June 2025. However, even with reduced volumes, Nepal accounted for nearly half (47.2%) of all Indian ware exports over the 12 months ending in May, totaling 230,294 tonnes. This statistic underscores that even when trade slows, the Nepalese market remains the backbone of the Indian fresh potato export sector. Summer 2025: Recovery and Dominance The market rebounded strongly as the year progressed into the summer. July 2025 marked a significant recovery. Exports to Nepal climbed to 15,026 tonnes, accounting for 42% of India’s total ware exports for the month. While this specific monthly figure was slightly lower (-2.5%) than July 2024, it signaled a return to high-volume trade. By September 2025, Nepal was absorbing massive quantities of Indian product. Exports for the month hit 32,651 tonnes. Although this was a slight 4.0% decrease from the high bar set in September 2023, it reinforced the critical nature of this trade route. For the 12 months ending September 2025, total exports to Nepal stabilized at 228,511 tonnes, virtually unchanged (+0.1%) from the previous year. Price Sensitivity and Market Dynamics The flow of potatoes into Nepal is sensitive to price fluctuations, though the essential nature of the commodity ensures that trade never halts completely. Throughout 2025, Indian export prices saw an upward trajectory before stabilizing. In April 2025, the price for exports to Nepal was ₹13,161/tonne. As the year progressed, prices moderated. By July 2025, the export price to Nepal was recorded at ₹11,980/tonne (approx. US$135). This was a slight increase of ₹340 from June, yet Nepal continued to import over 15,000 tonnes, demonstrating that demand is relatively inelastic within a certain price band. By September 2025, the price had adjusted further to ₹11,804/tonne (approx. US$132). This stabilization in price likely supported the high volumes observed in the latter half of the year. Comparative Importance of the Nepalese Market To fully appreciate the importance of the potato trade with Nepal, it must be viewed in contrast to India’s other export destinations. Reliability vs. Volatility: While Nepal provided a steady stream of orders throughout 2024 and 2025, other markets proved volatile. Bangladesh, previously a major buyer, completely ceased imports in months like May and September 2025. In contrast, Nepal consistently absorbed between 5,000 and 32,000 tonnes per month depending on the season. Volume vs. Value: While markets in the Gulf (Oman, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait) pay significantly higher prices per tonne—often double or triple the price paid by Nepal—they purchase much smaller volumes. For example, in July 2025, while Nepal bought over 15,000 tonnes at ₹11,980/tonne, Kuwait bought 2,014 tonnes at ₹25,274/tonne. Nepal acts as the volume driver, clearing large quantities of stock, while the Gulf markets serve as high-value destinations. Market Share: By late 2025, Nepal accounted for nearly half of all Indian fresh potato sales. In the year ending May 2025, Nepal took 230,294 tonnes out of a total 487,552 tonnes exported by India. Summary The data from the 2024-2025 period illustrates a symbiotic relationship between Indian potato producers and Nepalese consumers. Nepal, despite achieving record domestic production of nearly 3.5 million tonnes, relies on imports to bridge the gap between supply and demand. For India, Nepal serves as an indispensable outlet for its fresh potato crop. While the Indian industry successfully pursued high-value frozen fry markets in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, the fresh potato trade remained firmly anchored in the Himalayas. With annual volumes holding steady around 228,000 to 230,000 tonnes despite price fluctuations and seasonal variations, the export line to Nepal remains the most critical artery for India’s table potato sector. As India continues to produce bumper crops—surpassing 60 million tonnes in 2025—the stability of the Nepalese market will remain essential for managing supply and maintaining price equilibrium for Indian farmers. Read here: India’s Fresh Potato Exports in 2024

नेपाल के लिए आलू निर्यात का विश्लेषण (2024-2025) वैश्विक आलू व्यापार अक्सर बेल्जियम, नीदरलैंड्स और संयुक्त राज्य अमेरिका जैसे प्रमुख प्रसंस्करण देशों के इर्द-गिर्द घूमने वाली कथाओं से संचालित रहता है। हालांकि, दक्षिण एशिया में एक महत्वपूर्ण और स्थिर व्यापार गतिशीलता मौजूद है, विशेषकर भारत के आलू‑शक्तिशाली बल और उसके पहाड़ी पड़ोसी नेपाल के बीच। जहाँ नेपाल अपने आप में एक बड़ा आलू उत्पादक है, वहाँ घरेलू खपत की आवश्यकताओं को पूरा करने के लिए यह आयातों पर भारी निर्भर रहता है। 2024 के अंत से 2025 केEnd तक के व्यापार डेटा के आधार पर, नेपाल भारतीय ताजा आलुओं के लिए प्रमुख गंतव्य के रूप में अपनी स्थिति मजबूत कर चुका है, अन्य वैश्विक क्षेत्रों से मांग के उतार-चढ़ाव के बीच भारतीय निर्यातकों के लिए स्थिरता का एक स्रोत बनते हुए। घरेलू उत्पादन संदर्भ निर्यात बाज़ार को समझने के लिए सबसे पहले नेपाल की घरेलू क्षमता को देखना जरूरी है. नेपाल वैश्विक आलू क्षेत्र का एक महत्वपूर्ण खिलाड़ी है। 2023 में देश ने 3.48 मिलियन टन आलू पैदा किए। यह उत्पादन क्षमता में निरंतर वृद्धि दर्शाता है, जो 2022 के स्तर से 2.3%...
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The Story of McPatel Foods: A Partnership Forged in Europe. McPatel Foods emerged in 2023 from a shared vision among four founders aimed at revolutionizing the frozen food sector within the Indian market. The company’s vision, conceived collectively by the four directors and founders—Karan Sarodia, Aditya Patel, Kirit Haraniya, and Jignesh Patel—was explicitly defined to provide the best quality products to Indian customers while simultaneously focusing on the export market. The company established its operations specifically focusing on frozen French fries. The creation of McPatel Foods was the result of a singular, impactful trip undertaken by the four directors. They were already acquainted, coming from different industries. This pivotal moment occurred when they all attended the Anuga Europe trade fair, in late 2023, with the intention of exploring the frozen food market. It was during this exploration that the idea for McPatel Foods was conceived, leading to the birth of the company. Founders attribute the company’s existence directly to this journey, stating that if the Anuga trip had not happened, the company likely would not be where it is today. Following the trip, the founders collectively decided to establish the company and introduce their brand for processed potato products to the market. Corporate Identity and Director Insight The name “Mc Patel” itself reflects a core aspect of the company’s identity, as the founders “belong to the Patel family”. The directors, whose home state is Gujarat, leverage their local heritage and connections. Their background allows them to have a strong “connect and reach with the farmers and with everyone”. The directors are not only founders but are deeply invested in the operational side, particularly concerning raw material sourcing and farming relationships. Vision, Implementation, and Rapid Growth Despite being a young company, McPatel demonstrated rapid execution, a hallmark of their early operations. With a strong vision, the company initiated its production facility within a year of its inception, ensuring the facility was equipped with “all the best-in-class machineries”. They successfully launched both domestic and export sales within the year of starting production. The current production facility demonstrates a significant capacity even in its initial phase. The facility currently utilizes raw potatoes at a rate of 10 to 12 tons per hour. This raw material consumption translates into finished goods output of 5 tons per hour of frozen French fries. Additionally, recognizing the complementary nature of potato processing, McPatel also established a line for dehydrated potato flakes, currently running at a capacity of 500 kg per hour. Deep Commitment to Contract Farming A critical element of McPatel’s operation and philosophy is its integrated approach to raw material sourcing, centred on contract farming. Given that the founders belong to the Patel family and are closely connected to the farming community, this relationship is foundational. McPatel actively engages in contract farming with producers in Gujarat and neighbouring states. This partnership goes beyond simple purchasing; the company provides significant support to the farmers. Specifically, McPatel helps farmers grow by supplying essential raw materials, such as the specialized potato seeds needed for processing. Furthermore, the company aids them with knowledge regarding plantations and farming techniques. The commitment is cemented by a buy-back agreement, where McPatel purchases the raw potatoes produced under these contracts for use in their factories. This strategy ensures a consistent, high-quality supply of potatoes necessary for best-in-class frozen products. The company has emphasized its plan to “grow with our farmers”. Ambitious Future Expansion Plans McPatel Foods has laid out highly ambitious expansion goals slated for implementation within the coming three years. This expansion is multifaceted, targeting increased raw material handling, greater output of existing products, and diversification into new product lines. The planned expansion will dramatically increase the raw potato processing capability. The current consumption of 10 to 12 tons of raw material per hour is intended to expand substantially, reaching a future capacity of 40 to 50 tons of raw material (potatoes) per hour. In terms of finished goods, the frozen French fries line will see a major upgrade. An additional production line is planned, which will add approximately 20 tons per hour of capacity for frozen French fries. Complementing this, the dehydrated potato flake line is also set for expansion, targeting an increased capacity up to 1.2 tons per hour. Significantly, the expansion includes diversification into specialized products. The company plans to introduce a potato speciality line, which will include products such as hash browns, burger patties , aloo Tikki, and other potato speciality products. This comprehensive expansion plan, projected to be completed within two years, underlines McPatel’s commitment to capturing a larger share of the developing Indian frozen food market.

मैकपटेल फूड्स की कहानी: यूरोप में एक साझेदारी का निर्माण मैकपटेल फूड्स 2023 में चार संस्थापकों के बीच साझा दृष्टिकोण से उभरा, जिसका उद्देश्य भारतीय बाजार में जमी हुई खाद्य पदार्थों के क्षेत्र में क्रांति लाना था। कंपनी का दृष्टिकोण, जिसे चार निदेशकों और संस्थापकों — करण सारोड़िया, आदित्य पटेल, कीरत हरनिया, और जिनेश पटेल — द्वारा सामूहिक रूप से विकसित किया गया था, को स्पष्ट रूप से परिभाषित किया गया था ताकि भारतीय ग्राहकों को सर्वोत्तम गुणवत्ता वाले उत्पाद प्रदान किए जा सकें, साथ ही निर्यात बाजार पर भी ध्यान केंद्रित किया जा सके। कंपनी ने विशेष रूप से जमी हुई आलू फ्राइज़ पर ध्यान केंद्रित करते हुए अपने संचालन की स्थापना की। मैकपटेल फूड्स का निर्माण चार निदेशकों द्वारा किए गए एक विशेष, प्रभावशाली यात्रा का परिणाम था। वे पहले से ही अलग-अलग उद्योगों से परिचित थे। यह महत्वपूर्ण क्षण तब हुआ जब वे सभी 2023 के अंत में अनुगा यूरोप व्यापार मेले में भाग लेने गए, जिसका उद्देश्य जमी हुई खाद्य पदार्थों के बाजार का अन्वेषण करना था। इसी अन्वेषण के दौरान मैकपटेल फूड्स का विचार उत्पन्न हुआ, जिससे कंपनी क...
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Shaktiman-Grimme to Host “Potato Field Day 2026” in Ludhiana. The potato landscape of Punjab is on the cusp of a mechanical revolution. On January 28, 2026, the fields of B J Farms in Saraba Village, Ludhiana, will transform into a live classroom for the next generation of potato farming. Shaktiman-Grimme, in collaboration with New Holland, has announced its much-anticipated Potato Field Day 2026, an event dedicated to showcasing high-tech, customized solutions for potato farming. For the potato growers of not only in Punjab but across the country, this event represents more than just a machinery display; it is a roadmap to “Making Potato Farming More Economical“—the core mission that drives this Indo-German partnership. A Synergy of Global Excellence and Local Expertise The Potato Field Day 2026 is the result of a strategic joint venture between two industry giants: Shaktiman (Tirth Agro Technology Pvt. Ltd.), India’s leading manufacturer of agricultural implements, and Grimme, the German world leader in potato and root crop technology. Link Formed in 2019, this 50:50 joint venture has focused on bridging the gap in farm mechanization for root crops in India. By combining German precision engineering with Shaktiman’s deep understanding of Indian soil conditions, the partnership has produced machines that are not only efficient but also affordable for the Indian potato farmer. Live Demonstrations: The Heart of the Field Day The highlight of the event at B J Farms will be the live field demonstrations. Unlike a static showroom, the Potato Field Day allows farmers to witness machines performing in real-time soil conditions. 1. Precision Planting with the SGPP-205 Traditional potato planting is labor-intensive and often leads to uneven spacing, which affects yield quality. The Shaktiman-Grimme Potato Planter (SGPP-205) will be a star attraction. It features: Uniform Depth & Distance: Mechanical or electronic vibrators ensure no “doubles” or “misses” during planting. Adjustable Row Width: Tailored for Indian farm sizes, ranging from 66 cm to 90 cm. Yield Boost: Precision planting can increase crop yields by 10-12% while saving up to two bags of seed per acre. 2. High-Performance Harvesting with the SGPH-200 Harvesting is the most critical and expensive phase of the potato cycle. The SGPH-200 Potato Harvester is designed to replace hundreds of manual laborers with a single operator. Crop Protection: Gentle transport systems ensure that the potatoes are lifted without bruising or skinning. Dual-Row Efficiency: Capable of harvesting two rows simultaneously, even in difficult soil conditions. Steerable Wheels: With a turning radius of just 5.2 meters, it is perfectly adapted for the smaller field sizes typical of Punjab and India. 3. Soil Preparation and Vine Management Attendees will also see the Deep Hiller (SGDH-200) in action, which creates the ideal clod-free seedbed essential for root growth. Additionally, the Plant Topper will demonstrate how to efficiently cut potato vines (haulms) before harvesting to ensure the potato skin hardens, improving the crop’s shelf life. Link Why 2026 Should Be the Year of Potato Farming Mechanization The timing of this Field Day is crucial. Farmers in Punjab and India are currently facing a “triple threat”: rising labor costs, a shrinking window of time due to climate unpredictability, and the need for higher quality “processing-grade” potatoes for the snack food industry. Mechanization solves these challenges by: Reducing Labor Dependency: Automating the planting and harvesting process removes the volatility of labor availability. Precision Farming: Modern machines ensure that fertilizers and seeds are used optimally, reducing waste and lowering the cost of production. Market Competitiveness: Potatoes harvested mechanically are cleaner and more uniform, making them more attractive to exporters and processing units (like chips and French fry manufacturers). Collaborative Strength: Shaktiman & New Holland The presence of New Holland at the event exemplifies the importance of tractor-implement compatibility. Most of the Shaktiman-Grimme range is designed to work seamlessly with tractors in the 50 HP to 75 HP range. By showcasing these machines alongside New Holland’s robust tractor lineup, farmers can see a “complete package” solution for their farm. Event Details & Invitation Shaktiman-Grimme cordially invites all progressive farmers, agricultural researchers, and industry stakeholders to join this landmark event. Detail Information Event Name Potato Field Day 2026 Date 28 January 2026 Time 09:00 AM Onwards Venue B J Farms, Saraba Village, Dist. Ludhiana, Punjab Contact Numbers 7041793070, 9033012392, 9033012390   What to Expect: Expert Consultations: Interact with German and Indian engineers to discuss your specific potato farming requirements. Machine Walkthroughs: Get a close-up look at the internal mechanisms of the harvesters and planters. Networking: Connect with other progressive farmers in the Punjab potato belt. The Potato Field Day 2026 is not just about selling machines; it is about sharing a vision. As India continues to be the world’s second-largest potato producer, the shift toward “Root Crop Solutions” provided by Shaktiman-Grimme is essential for global competitiveness. Whether you are a small-scale farmer looking to reduce costs or a large-scale grower aiming for export quality, the event at B J Farms promises to provide the tools you need to thrive in the modern potato farming era.

शक्तिमान-ग्रीम ने लुधियाना में “आलू क्षेत्र दिवस 2026” की मेज़बानी की घोषणा की है। पंजाब का आलू क्षेत्र एक तकनीकी क्रांति की कगार पर है। 28 जनवरी 2026 को, लुधियाना के सराबा गांव में बी जे फार्म्स के खेत अगली पीढ़ी के आलू farming के लिए एक लाइव कक्ष में बदल जाएंगे। शक्तिमान-ग्रीम, न्यू हॉलैंड के सहयोग से, अपने अपेक्षित आलू क्षेत्र दिवस 2026 की घोषणा की है, जो आलू farming के लिए उच्च-तकनीक, कस्टमाइज्ड समाधानों को प्रदर्शित करने के लिए समर्पित एक कार्यक्रम है। पंजाब के आलू उत्पादकों के लिए नहीं, बल्कि पूरे देश के लिए, यह कार्यक्रम केवल मशीनरी प्रदर्शन से अधिक का प्रतिनिधित्व करता है; यह “आलू farming को अधिक आर्थिक बनाना” के लिए एक रोडमैप है—यह Indo-German साझेदारी का मुख्य उद्देश्य। वैश्विक उत्कृष्टता और स्थानीय विशेषज्ञता का समन्वय आलू क्षेत्र दिवस 2026 दो उद्योग दिग्गजों के बीच एक रणनीतिक संयुक्त उद्यम का परिणाम है: शक्तिमान (तीर्थ एग्रो टेक्नोलॉजी प्रा. लि.), भारत का प्रमुख कृषि उपकरण निर्माता, और ग्रिम्मे, आलू और जड़ फसल प्रौद्योगिकी में जर्मनी का विश्व नेता। 2019 में स्थापित, यह 50:5...
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Fry and Bake Technologies wins “Snacks Production Line of the Year” at Indusfood 2026. The Indian food processing landscape continues to evolve with rapid technological advancements, Fry and Bake Technologies Private Limited is leading these advancements. The company recently emerged as a standout performer at the Indusfood Manufacturing 2026 event, held from January 6th to 8th at the prestigious Yashobhoomi, IICC, Dwarka, New Delhi. The event, a premier global platform for food technology and manufacturing, witnessed Fry and Bake Technologies receiving the highly coveted Food Processing Machinery Award for the “Continuous Snacks Production Line of the Year.” This recognition solidifies the company’s position as a leader in delivering integrated, high-efficiency solutions for the snacks and ready-to-eat (RTE) segments. A Milestone Achievement: Continuous Snacks Production Line of the Year The award for “Continuous Snacks Production Line of the Year” reflects Fry and Bake’s commitment to engineering excellence. Their automated systems are designed to handle high-volume production while maintaining stringent quality standards—a critical requirement for manufacturers looking to scale their operations in an increasingly competitive global market. By integrating advanced thermal processing with precise material handling, these production lines allow for seamless transitions from raw ingredients to packaged products for potato flakes, french fries and other snack lines. The award specifically recognizes the reliability, throughput, and technological sophistication that Fry and Bake bring to the industry.   Thought Leadership: Scaling Indian Snacks Beyond the exhibition floor, Mr. Krishna Pandit, Director of Fry and Bake Technologies, played a pivotal role as a featured speaker. During his session titled “Scaling Indian Snacks: Innovations and Infrastructure in the RTE Segment,” Mr. Pandit addressed the unique challenges faced by Indian manufacturers. He emphasized that scaling is no longer just about recipes; it is an infrastructure challenge. His insights covered: Engineering Precision: Moving from batch processes to continuous lines to ensure uniformity. Technological Integration: How direct-heating systems and automated thermal controls improve product crispness and nutritional profiles. Global Standards: Aligning Indian manufacturing practices with international safety and hygiene benchmarks to facilitate exports. Innovation Spotlight: The “Paper Filter” for Edible Oil A significant highlight of Fry and Bake’s participation was the introduction of their specialized Edible Filtration Units, often referred to as the “Paper Filter.” During an expert panel discussion, Mr. Pandit detailed how this technology is a game-changer for snack manufacturers. Traditional frying processes often suffer from oil degradation due to the accumulation of carbon and micro-crumbs (fines). The Paper Filter system offers a robust solution: Carbon and Crumb Filtration: It effectively filters out micro-sized crumbs and carbon particles that standard filters might miss. Oil Longevity: By removing these contaminants, the system prevents the oil from darkening and developing a “burnt” smell, significantly extending its usable life. Hygiene and Efficiency: Continuous filtration ensures that the snacks produced are free from black spots and maintain a consistent color and taste. Operational Efficiency: Reducing the frequency of oil changes and fryer cleaning leads to longer production runs and lower costs. In the Limelight: 92.7 BIG FM Feature The innovations showcased by Fry and Bake Technologies caught the attention of the media, leading to a special feature by Radio 92.7 BIG FM. This platform allowed Mr. Pandit to share his vision for the future of food technology with a broader audience, highlighting how indigenous Indian engineering is now competing—and winning—on the global stage. Link Looking Ahead: The Future of Food Tech As Fry and Bake Technologies celebrates its success at Indusfood Manufacturing 2026, the company remains focused on its mission to provide cutting-edge, sustainable machinery for the food industry. With a strong R&D team and a focus on solving real-world production constraints, they are well-positioned to lead the next wave of innovation in snack processing. Whether it is through their award-winning production lines or their revolutionary filtration systems, Fry and Bake is proving that with the right technology, Indian snack brands can indeed achieve global leadership. Contact Information For more information about our award-winning snacks production lines and filtration technologies, please reach out to us: Website: www.fryandbake.com Email: info@fryandbake.com ●  Phone: +91 99097 76066

फ्राई एंड बेक टेक्नोलॉजीज ने इंडसफूड 2026 में “स्नैक्स प्रोडक्शन लाइन ऑफ द ईयर” पुरस्कार जीता। भारतीय खाद्य प्रोसेसिंग परिदृश्य तेजी से तकनीकी प्रगति के साथ विकसित हो रहा है, जिसमें फ्राई एंड बेक टेक्नोलॉजीज प्राइवेट लिमिटेड इन प्रगतियों का नेतृत्व कर रहा है। कंपनी हाल ही में प्रतिष्ठित यशोभूमि, आईआईसीसी, द्वारका, नई दिल्ली में 6 से 8 जनवरी तक आयोजित इंडसफूड मैन्युफैक्चरिंग 2026 कार्यक्रम में एक विशेष प्रदर्शनकर्ता के रूप में उभरी। यह कार्यक्रम खाद्य प्रौद्योगिकी और विनिर्माण के लिए एक प्रमुख वैश्विक मंच था, जहाँ फ्राई एंड बेक टेक्नोलॉजीज ने “कॉन्टिन्यूअस स्नैक्स प्रोडक्शन लाइन ऑफ द ईयर” के लिए अत्यधिक प्रशंसित फ़ूड प्रोसेसिंग मशीनरी पुरस्कार प्राप्त किया। यह मान्यता कंपनी की स्थिति को स्नैक्स और रेडी-टू-ईट (आरटीई) क्षेत्रों में एकीकृत, उच्च-क्षमता समाधान प्रदान करने वाले नेता के रूप में मजबूत करती है। एक मील का पत्थर: कॉन्टिन्यूअस स्नैक्स प्रोडक्शन लाइन ऑफ द ईयर “कॉन्टिन्यूअस स्नैक्स प्रोडक्शन लाइन ऑफ द ईयर” का पुरस्कार फ्राई एंड बेक की इंजीनियरिंग उत्कृष्टता के प्रति प्रतिबद्धता को द...
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FPS Food Process Solutions Targets Global Food Manufacturing & Technology Market with Major Expansions Around the World FPS Food Process Solutions (“FPS”), a global leader in turn-key food processing solutions, targets global food manufacturing and technology market with major expansion plans around the world. Key milestones include: FPS MEA opens its 2nd location in central Morocco, to facilitate its logistics center to oversee equipment, parts and inventory for the Middle East and Africa region. The new location will be fully operational this month in January 2026. GEM Equipment of Oregon, currently undergoing renovations to expand its Mt Angel, Oregon location, is expected to finish completion in Spring 2026. The 110,000 ft² (10,200 m²) space will accommodate manufacturing, spare parts, inventory and office space. FPS Brazil, based in a major industrial technology site in São Paulo, will be able to offer manufacturing, spare parts and office space in its new 29,000 ft² (2,700 m²) location by Summer 2026. FPS China recently held its ground-breaking ceremony in Zhongshan, Guangdong, China. Scheduled for completion in Autumn 2026, the 119,000 ft² (11,100 m²), nine-floor facility will incorporate an integrated food production platform, equipment R&D, global training center, and technological command center for real-time remote equipment monitoring. FPS Europe is expected to complete expansion of its Goes, Netherlands facility to increase manufacturing capacity and inventory space totalling 61,000 ft² (5,700 m²) by end 2026. Jeffrey Chang, President, FPS Food Process Solutions Corp Says. “2026 will be a major year in implementing this new chapter of development for FPS — one where innovation, technology, manufacturing and full-scale production are fully coming together in key locations around the world. What was once an idea is turning into reality where industry professionals can make a difference, all to advance the future of food manufacturing,” Action Button About FPS Food Process Solutions FPS Food Process Solutions is a global leader in turn-key food processing solutions, serving customers across six continents. Founded in 2010, FPS employs over 1,000 professionals worldwide and operates more than 1,280,000 ft² (119,000 m²) of space across 23 locations, including its Canadian headquarters, manufacturing facilities, and international sales offices. Through our subsidiaries and strategic partnerships, FPS delivers comprehensive, end-to-end processing solutions—providing a true “one-stop shop” for food processors around the world. For more information, go to https://www.fpscorp.ca/ For More Information Visit the website of FPS Solutions here

एफपीएस फूड प्रोसेस सॉल्यूशन वैश्विक खाद्य निर्माण और प्रौद्योगिकी बाजार को लक्षित करता है, विश्वभर में बड़े विस्तार योजनाओं के साथ एफपीएस फूड प्रोसेस सॉल्यूशन (“एफपीएस”), जो टर्न-की खाद्य प्रसंस्करण समाधानों में एक वैश्विक नेता है, वैश्विक खाद्य निर्माण और प्रौद्योगिकी बाजार को लक्षित करता है, विश्वभर में बड़े विस्तार योजनाओं के साथ। मुख्य मील के पत्थर इस प्रकार हैं: एफपीएस एमईए ने मध्य मोरक्को में अपना दूसरा स्थान खोला है, जिससे मध्य पूर्व और अफ्रीका क्षेत्र के लिए उपकरण, भागों और इन्वेंटरी की निगरानी के लिए इसका लॉजिस्टिक्स केंद्र स्थापित होगा। नया स्थान इस महीने जनवरी 2026 में पूरी तरह से संचालन में होगा। ओरेगन की जेम उपकरण, जो वर्तमान में अपने माउंट एंजेल, ओरेगन स्थान के विस्तार के लिए पुनर्विकास कर रही है, के वसंत 2026 में पूरा होने की उम्मीद है। 110,000 वर्ग फीट (10,200 वर्ग मीटर) का स्थान उत्पादन, स्पेयर पार्ट्स, इन्वेंटरी और ऑफिस स्पेस के लिए सुविधाएं प्रदान करेगा। ब्राज़ील का एफपीएस, साओ पाउलो के एक प्रमुख औद्योगिक तकनीकी स्थल पर आधारित है, अपने नए 29,000 वर्ग फीट (2,700 वर्ग ...
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Annual Report: The Indian Potato Sector in 2025. The global potato market witnessed a seismic shift in 2025, defined not by the traditional powerhouses of Northern Europe or North America, but by the aggressive ascent of India. Long established as the world’s second-largest producer of tubers, India’s role in the global trade matrix underwent a fundamental transformation throughout the calendar year 2025. No longer content with merely supplying fresh table potatoes to immediate The global potato market witnessed a seismic shift in 2025, defined not by the traditional powerhouses of Northern Europe or North America, but by the aggressive ascent of India. Long established as the world’s second-largest producer of tubers, India’s role in the global trade matrix underwent a fundamental transformation throughout the calendar year. No longer content with merely supplying fresh table potatoes to immediate neighbours, the Indian industry leveraged a record harvest and highly competitive pricing to disrupt the global frozen french fry market. By undercutting established European and North American suppliers, India carved out significant market share across Asia and the Middle East, signalling its arrival as a top-tier competitor in the value-added processing sector. Production Landscape: A Foundation for Growth The bedrock of India’s 2025 trade performance was a robust production base. Official figures released by India’s Agriculture Ministry in June 2025 pegged the 2024/25 production at 58.1 million tonnes. This  output provided the raw material necessary to fuel an expanding processing sector while maintaining domestic food security. Link Connect Now This abundance was critical as it allowed Indian exporters to maintain volume despite fluctuations in regional harvests. While weather conditions challenged growers in some specific regions, the overall national output remained resilient, cementing India’s status as the only country producing over 33 million tonnes more than its nearest rival (excluding China),. This massive volume of raw material provided the necessary scale to support a burgeoning export strategy focused on aggressive price competitiveness. The Frozen Fry Export Boom The defining narrative of the Indian potato industry in calendar year 2025 was the unprecedented expansion of its frozen french fry exports. The year was characterised by a succession of broken records as Indian processors looked outward. The momentum began early in the year. In February 2025, frozen fry exports broke the 20,000-tonne barrier for the first time, reaching 20,284 tonnes—a 46.1% increase over the same month in the previous year. This upward trend accelerated into March, setting a new record of 22,098 tonnes, a 10.7% increase year-on-year. However, the peak of this export drive occurred in the summer. July 2025 saw Indian fry exports hit a new all-time high of 25,318 tonnes, a staggering 77.5% increase compared to July 2024. Even as the year progressed, volumes remained historically high; August saw shipments of 24,659 tonnes, and September maintained momentum with 24,589 tonnes. Link By the end of September 2025, India’s 12-month export total had reached 234,056 tonnes, marking a 43.9% increase over the previous year. This surge in volume was accompanied by a significant rise in value; the 12-month export earnings reached a record ₹22.2 billion. The Strategy of Price Competitiveness India’s rapid expansion into global markets was driven primarily by a strategy of aggressive pricing. As European and North American suppliers grappled with high input costs and currency fluctuations, India consistently offered substantially lower prices. Throughout 2025, Indian export prices trended downward, making their products increasingly attractive to price-sensitive markets. In February, the average export price was ₹97,195/tonne, down 7.3% on the previous year. By May, the price had fallen further to ₹94,272/tonne, and by July, it dropped to ₹91,686/tonne—a 6.8% decrease year-on-year. By September 2025, the average export price held steady at ₹91,847/tonne, which was 3.5% lower than the previous year. This pricing strategy was instrumental in capturing market share; for example, in May, India offered fries to Malaysia at ₹98,616/tonne, and to Saudi Arabia at a highly competitive ₹88,792/tonne. Market Diversification: Conquering the Middle East While Southeast Asia remained a stronghold, the most dramatic shifts in 2025 occurred in the Middle East. Indian exporters successfully targeted the Gulf states, capitalizing on geographic proximity and pricing to displace European dominance. Saudi Arabia emerged as a star market for Indian processors. In the 12 months leading to August 2025, exports to Saudi Arabia skyrocketed by 314% to reach 20,377 tonnes. In July alone, Saudi Arabia imported 3,253 tonnes of Indian fries, an 885% increase compared to the same month the previous year. This surge was facilitated by a highly competitive price point of ₹81,537/tonne, significantly undercutting competitors. By September 2025, sales to Saudi Arabia for the month reached 5,185 tonnes, a 184% increase year-on-year, with prices dropping further to ₹78,837/tonne,. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) showed a similar appetite for Indian product. Annual sales to the UAE exploded by over 406% to 15,358 tonnes by August. In February alone, exports to the UAE jumped by 706%. By September 2025, India had firmly established itself as a critical supplier to the region, exporting 17,295 tonnes over the 12-month period, a 133% increase. The Battle for Southeast Asia In Southeast Asia, India engaged in fierce competition with China to fill the vacuum left by higher-priced US and European products. Link The Philippines remained India’s largest single export market. Despite intense pressure from Chinese suppliers, India maintained a strong foothold. In July 2025, sales to the Philippines surged by 141.8% to 7,129 tonnes, driven by a price reduction to ₹86,908/tonne. Over the 12 months ending in September 2025, the Philippines absorbed 57,200 tonnes of Indian fries, representing a 25.0% increase. Malaysia proved to be a major growth area. Indian exports to Malaysia increased by 222% in the year ending December 2024. This trend continued through 2025; in September alone, sales to Malaysia rose by 153.1% to 2,984 tonnes. By offering prices such as ₹92,416/tonne in July, India successfully competed for market share against other low-cost suppliers. However, the Thai market proved more difficult. Exports to Thailand fell by 52.0% in the year ending July 2025, dropping to 19,313 tonnes. In May 2025, sales to Thailand plummeted by 65.9%. This indicated that while India was highly competitive against Western suppliers, it faced a fierce battle in specific Asian markets where prices remained relatively high at ₹100,731/tonne in July. New Frontiers: Japan and Beyond Perhaps the most significant indicator of India’s rising quality standards was its breakthrough into the Japanese market—traditionally the reserve of high-quality US products. In the year ending August 2025, Indian fry exports to Japan surged by 112% to 10,815 tonnes. In September 2025, shipments to Japan jumped by 68.5% to 1,415 tonnes. Even in the highly discerning South Korean market, India began to make inroads, exporting 151 tonnes in September 2025, a 55.7% increase. The Fresh (Ware) Potato Trade While the processing sector grabbed headlines, the trade in fresh (ware) potatoes remained a vital component of the Indian potato economy, characterised by high volumes but fluctuating demand from key neighbours. In the 2024 calendar year, India achieved record ware exports of 536,138 tonnes. However, as 2025 progressed, the sector faced headwinds. By August 2025, annual ware exports had dipped by 3.9% to 490,008 tonnes. This decline was largely attributed to the loss of the Bangladesh market. In 2024, Bangladesh had been a major buyer, but in 2025, demand evaporated, with zero exports recorded in months like April and September. Conversely, Nepal solidified its position as the primary destination for Indian fresh potatoes. Nepal consistently absorbed large volumes, accounting for nearly half of all sales. In July 2025, Nepal purchased 15,026 tonnes, representing 42% of India’s total ware exports for the month. The Gulf region also remained a critical outlet for fresh potatoes. Oman consolidated its position as India’s second-largest market, with annual purchases rising 17.6% to 55,249 tonnes by April. Kuwait and the UAE also increased their intake, undeterred by rising prices. For example, in May 2025, the average export price for Indian ware potatoes reached a record ₹24,003/tonne. Dehydrated Products and Starch Beyond fries and fresh tubers, India continued to expand its footprint in the dehydrated potato sector (flakes and flour). This sector provided a crucial outlet for surplus production and further diversified India’s export portfolio. India made significant gains in the European market for dehydrated products, capitalizing on shortages and high prices within the EU. In the year ending October 2024, India exported 40,672 tonnes of flakes and flour, a 17.0% increase. India’s flake exports to Asian neighbors also surged. Exports to Malaysia rose by nearly 48% to 12,795 tonnes and to the Philippines by 43.8% to 4,688 tonnes in the 2023/24 period. The 2025 Calendar Year The calendar year 2025 marked a definitive turning point for the Indian potato industry. No longer a sleeping giant restricted to domestic consumption and regional fresh trade, India emerged as a structural competitor in the global processed potato market. By leveraging a record harvest and maintaining aggressively low export prices—often significantly lower than Western competitors—India successfully captured market share in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The explosion in frozen fry exports, reaching over 234,000 tonnes annually by September, combined with sustained fresh exports to Nepal and the Gulf, demonstrates a resilience and ambition that has reshaped global trade flows. As European and North American suppliers grappled with tariffs, high costs, and stagnant demand, India filled the void. While challenges remain in stabilizing farm-gate prices and managing regional competition with China, the performance of 2025 confirmed that the Indian potato industry has successfully pivoted toward a value-added, export-oriented future.

वार्षिक रिपोर्ट: भारतीय आलू क्षेत्र 2025 में वैश्विक आलू बाजार ने 2025 में एक बड़ा बदलाव देखा, जो उत्तरी यूरोप या उत्तरी अमेरिका के पारंपरिक शक्तियों द्वारा नहीं बल्कि भारत के आक्रामक उभार से परिभाषित हुआ। लंबे समय से कंद उत्पादों का दुनिया का दूसरा-largest उत्पादक रहने के नाते, भारत की वैश्विक व्यापार मैट्रिक्स में भूमिका ने 2025 के कैलेंडर वर्ष के दौरान एक मूलभूत परिवर्तन किया। अब तक केवल पड़ोसी देशों को ताजा आलू की आपूर्ति करके संतुष्ट नहीं रहा, भारतीय उद्योग ने एक रिकॉर्ड फसल और अत्यधिक प्रतिस्पर्धात्मक कीमतों का लाभ उठाते हुए वैश्विक फ्रीज़ फ्राई बाजार को बाधित किया। स्थापित यूरोपीय और उत्तरी अमेरिकी आपूर्तिकर्ताओं को नुकसान पहुंचाते हुए, भारत ने एशिया और मध्य पूर्व में महत्वपूर्ण बाजार हिस्सेदारी प्राप्त की, जो मूल्य-वर्धन प्रसंस्करण क्षेत्र में एक उच्च श्रेणी के प्रतिस्पर्धी के रूप में अपनी उपस्थिति का संकेत था। उत्पादन परिदृश्य: विकास के लिए एक आधार भारत के 2025 के व्यापार प्रदर्शन की नींव एक मजबूत उत्पादन आधार थी। भारत के कृषि मंत्रालय द्वारा जून 2025 में जारी आधिकारिक आंकड़ों...
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Viktor Kovalev’s Invitation For Agrotech Potato Horti Expo, Moscow, Russia, 21-23 Jan 2026. For details and participation write a mail to info@indpotato.com The global agricultural landscape is shifting, and at the heart of this transformation is the humble potato. As the world’s fourth most important food crop, the potato industry is undergoing a technological and logistical revolution. Leading this charge in Eastern Europe is Viktor Kovalev, the founder of Potatoes.news and the visionary behind the International Potato Tour. Recently, Kovalev extended a prestigious invitation to the global potato community, calling on farmers, scientists, and industry giants to converge at the Agrotech Potato Horti Expo—the most significant event of its kind in the region. A Bridge Between Traditions and Technology Viktor Kovalev has long been a champion of “potato diplomacy,” a concept that emphasizes the power of knowledge exchange to transcend borders. His invitation is more than just a call to attend a trade show; it is an invitation to witness the future of food security. Eastern Europe, with its vast fertile lands and growing processing infrastructure, has become a critical hub for the industry. The upcoming event, centered in Moscow, serves as a strategic bridge. It connects the deep-rooted agricultural traditions of the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) with the high-tech innovations emerging from Western Europe, India, and China. Kovalev’s mission is to ensure that farmers—from small-scale growers in Central Asia to industrial giants in Russia—have access to the tools that will define the next decade of farming. What to Expect: Precision, Processing, and Partnerships The Agrotech Potato Horti Expo is designed to be a comprehensive ecosystem for the industry. Kovalev highlights several key pillars that will define the event: Technological Sovereignty and Innovation: The expo will showcase the latest in precision agriculture. This includes drone monitoring, automated harvesting machinery adapted for local soil conditions, and digital tools that help agronomists make real-time decisions in the field. The Processing Boom: As consumer demand for value-added products like French fries and potato flakes rises, the event focuses heavily on processing technology. Kovalev emphasizes that localizing these facilities is the key to economic stability for regional farmers. Seed Breeding and Genetics: With climate change presenting new challenges, the introduction of climate-resilient and high-yield varieties is a top priority. The event will feature breakthroughs in breeding from international laboratories and local institutes. The Power of Networking Beyond the machinery and the science, Kovalev’s invitation underscores the importance of the “people behind the potato.” The event is expected to host over 20,000 professionals and 800+ exhibitors. It provides a rare platform for seed breeders to meet investors, and for equipment manufacturers to hear directly from the farmers who use their tools. Kovalev’s own project, the International Potato Tour, has become a “video encyclopedia” of the industry, and his presence at the expo ensures a high level of media visibility. His goal is to turn individual success stories into a collective movement that strengthens the entire supply chain. A Vision for 2026 and Beyond The invitation to this event also serves as a kickoff for the International Potato Tour’s 2026 season. By bringing the global community together in Eastern Europe, Kovalev is setting the stage for new routes that will span across Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and even into Africa. For professionals in the potato industry, Viktor Kovalev’s message is clear: the future of agriculture is collaborative. Whether you are an agronomist looking for better fertilizers or a tech CEO seeking a new market, the Agrotech Potato Horti Expo is the place to be. As Kovalev often says, the industry moves forward when we share our stories, our challenges, and our innovations. In the heart of Eastern Europe, the global potato community is ready to plant the seeds for a more productive and sustainable tomorrow.

विक्टर कोवालेव की आमंत्रण पत्रिका: एग्रोटेक आलू हॉर्टी एक्सपो, मास्को, रूस, 21-23 जनवरी 2026। विवरण और भागीदारी के लिए मेल लिखें: info@indpotato.com वैश्विक कृषि परिदृश्य बदल रहा है, और इस परिवर्तन के केंद्र में है साधारण आलू। दुनिया की चौथी सबसे महत्वपूर्ण खाद्य फसल के रूप में, आलू उद्योग एक तकनीकी और लॉजिस्टिकल क्रांति के दौर से गुजर रहा है। पूर्वी यूरोप में इस परिवर्तन का नेतृत्व करने वाले हैं विक्टर कोवालेव, जो Potatoes.news के संस्थापक और अंतरराष्ट्रीय आलू दौरे के दृष्टा हैं। हाल ही में, कोवालेव ने वैश्विक आलू समुदाय को एक प्रतिष्ठित आमंत्रण दिया, जिसमें किसानों, वैज्ञानिकों और उद्योग के दिग्गजों को एग्रोटेक आलू हॉर्टी एक्सपो में converging होने के लिए कहा—यह क्षेत्र का सबसे महत्वपूर्ण कार्यक्रम है। परंपराओं और तकनीक के बीच एक पुल विक्टर कोवालेव लंबे समय से "आलू कूटनीति" के चैंपियन रहे हैं, जो ज्ञान के आदान-प्रदान की शक्ति को सीमाओं को पार करने पर जोर देती है। उनका आमंत्रण केवल एक व्यापार प्रदर्शन में भाग लेने का आग्रह नहीं है; यह खाद्य सुरक्षा के भविष्य को देखने का आमंत...
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Potato Icon Awards 2026: Honoring the Potato Architects. Apply for Potato Icon Awards Here https://indianpotato.co/awards In the vast landscape of Indian agriculture, few crops hold as much cultural and economic weight as the potato. Often referred to as the “King of Vegetables,” the potato is a staple in every Indian household, a versatile ingredient in cuisines ranging from the street-side aloo tikki to gourmet preparations. However, beyond the kitchen, the potato industry represents a multi-billion dollar economy that sustains millions of farmers, processors, and entrepreneurs. To celebrate the unsung heroes of this sector, Krishi Jagran has unveiled the Potato Icon Awards 2026, a national platform dedicated to recognizing excellence, innovation, and leadership in the potato value chain. Apply Here For Potato Icon Awards As part of the broader Crop Icons Mission (2026–2046), these awards represent a pivotal step toward the vision of a Viksit Bharat @2047. By spotlighting the most progressive minds in potato cultivation and processing, the initiative aims to transform the “humble spud” into a symbol of prosperity and technological advancement. The Vision Behind the Awards India stands as the second-largest producer of potatoes globally, yet the sector faces significant challenges, including climate volatility, post-harvest losses, and the need for better market linkages. The Potato Icon Awards 2026 are designed not just as a ceremony, but as a movement to address these hurdles. Organized by Krishi Jagran, a pioneer in agricultural media, the awards seek to bridge the gap between rural innovation and mainstream recognition. The primary objective is to identify and honor individuals and organizations—Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), startups, and researchers—who are driving real change through unity, sustainable practices, and cutting-edge technology. Celebrating Innovation and Resilience The 2026 awards focus heavily on the modernization of the potato sector. In recent years, the industry has seen a massive shift toward “Smart Farming.” The Potato Icon Awards recognize those who have successfully integrated AI, drones, and precision agriculture into their fields. Categories under the Potato Icon umbrella include: Cultivation Excellence: For farmers who have achieved record yields using sustainable and climate-smart techniques. Seed & Bio-Input Innovation: Recognizing the development of high-quality, disease-resistant seed varieties and eco-friendly fertilizers. Processing & Value Addition: Honoring the entrepreneurs who transform raw potatoes into high-value products like chips, fries, and flakes, thereby increasing the shelf life and profitability of the crop. Supply Chain & Logistics Champions: Celebrating those who have built efficient cold-storage networks and logistics systems to reduce wastage. The “Crop Icon” Mission: A Long-term Commitment The Potato Icon Awards are a cornerstone of the Crop Icons Mission, which spans two decades. This mission is rooted in the belief that every major crop in India deserves its own ecosystem of recognition. By focusing specifically on the potato in 2026, the organizers are highlighting its role in food security. The initiative aligns with the government’s efforts to double farmer incomes and promote “Aatmanirbhar Krishi” (Self-reliant Agriculture). By showcasing success stories, the awards provide a roadmap for other farmers to follow, encouraging the adoption of scientific farming methods and entrepreneurial thinking. Empowering the Next Generation: Youth and Women Icons One of the most exciting aspects of the 2026 edition is the focus on inclusivity. The “40 Under 40” and “Women-Led Icon” categories are designed to attract the youth back to agriculture. By showcasing that potato farming can be a high-tech, high-profit business, the awards are inspiring young agritech graduates and rural women to take up leadership roles. These “Agri-Icons” are no longer just traditional farmers; they are CEOs of their own FPOs and founders of innovative startups that solve real-world problems. Impact on the Global Stage The timing of these awards is particularly significant. With the World Potato Congress also scheduled for 2026, the eyes of the global agricultural community are on the sector. The Potato Icon Awards provide a perfect stage for Indian farmers and startups to showcase their potential to international investors and collaborators. It positions India not just as a producer, but as a global hub for potato innovation. How to Join the Recognition Journey The nomination process for the Potato Icon Awards 2026 is currently open, inviting entries from across the country. The platform is designed to be accessible to everyone, from small-scale farmers in the heart of Uttar Pradesh to tech-driven startups in Bangalore. Prospective nominees can file their applications through the official portal at https://indianpotato.co/awards. This link serves as the gateway for farmers and organizations to share their stories of grit and growth. Whether it is a breakthrough in soil health or a revolutionary new way to link farmers directly to the market, every entry contributes to the collective knowledge of the industry. A Harvest of Hope The Potato Icon Awards 2026 are more than just trophies and citations; they are a celebration of the spirit of the Indian farmer. In a world where food security is becoming increasingly complex, the potato offers a resilient solution. By honoring the “Icons” of this industry, Krishi Jagran is ensuring that the hard work of the soil is met with the prestige of the stage. As we move toward the final ceremony, the excitement within the agri-community is palpable. The Potato Icon Awards 2026 promise to be a landmark event, turning the spotlight on the people who feed the nation and, in doing so, are building a stronger, more sustainable future for India. The journey from a small seed in the earth to an “Icon” on the national stage is a testament to the fact that with innovation and dedication, the humble potato can indeed lead a revolution.

आलू आइकन अवार्ड्स 2026: आलू के आर्किटेक्ट्स का सम्मान। आलू आइकन अवार्ड्स के लिए आवेदन करें यहाँ https://ift.tt/eL27iFR भारतीय कृषि के विशाल परिदृश्य में, कुछ फसलें आलू की तरह सांस्कृतिक और आर्थिक महत्व रखती हैं। अक्सर "सब्जियों का राजा" कहा जाने वाला आलू हर भारतीय घर में एक मुख्य खाद्य सामग्री है, जो स्ट्रीट-साइड आलू टिक्की से लेकर शानदार पकवानों तक में एक बहुपरकारी सामग्री के रूप में उपयोग होता है। हालाँकि, रसोई से परे, आलू उद्योग एक बहु-बिलियन डॉलर की अर्थव्यवस्था का प्रतिनिधित्व करता है जो लाखों किसानों, प्रोसेसरों और उद्यमियों का समर्थन करता है। इस क्षेत्र के अनसंग नायकों को सम्मानित करने के लिए, कृषी जागरण ने आलू आइकन अवार्ड्स 2026 का अनावरण किया है, एक राष्ट्रीय मंच जो आलू मूल्य श्रृंखला में उत्कृष्टता, नवाचार और नेतृत्व को मान्यता देने के लिए समर्पित है। आलू आइकन अवार्ड्स के लिए आवेदन यहाँ करें कृषि आइकन मिशन (2026-2046) के व्यापक भाग के रूप में, ये पुरस्कार विकसित भारत @2047 के दृष्टिकोण की दिशा में एक महत्वपूर्ण कदम हैं। आलू खेती और प्रसंस्करण में सबसे प्रगतिशील बुद्...
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Why Bhutan is Looking Beyond India for Potato Exports. For generations, the potato has been more than just a staple crop in Bhutan; it is a vital economic lifeline for thousands of high-altitude farmers. However, as 2026 begins, the fields of Bhutan tell a story of unintended consequences and market volatility. According to recent reports from The Star and Kuensel, Bhutan’s potato sector is currently grappling with a severe crisis as a combination of early Indian harvests, a domestic price slump, and a “hangover” from the previous year’s success has left exports at a standstill. The Shadow of 2024: A Trap of High Expectations To understand the current predicament, one must look back at the 2024–2025 season. During that period, India faced significant potato shortages due to adverse weather and low yields. This supply vacuum drove the price of Bhutanese potatoes to historic highs, with some farmers receiving over Nu 60 (approximately US$0.72) per kilogram. These record-breaking returns sent a powerful signal to the Bhutanese highlands. Encouraged by the windfall, farmers significantly expanded their cultivation areas for the 2025 season. By the third quarter of 2025, Bhutan’s production reached an impressive 39,488 metric tonnes (MT). However, the high prices of the previous year also bred a risky strategy: hoarding. Expecting prices to skyrocket again late in the season, many farmers ignored advisories from the Food Corporation of Bhutan Limited (FCBL) and held onto their stocks, waiting for a peak that never came. The Perfect Storm: Early Harvests and Falling Demand The primary blow to Bhutan’s export ambitions came from across the border. Historically, Bhutan’s export window peaks between June and November, a period when Indian domestic stocks are typically low. However, in late 2025, the agricultural calendar in India shifted. States like West Bengal and Punjab saw their fresh potato harvests arrive as early as the first week of December—weeks ahead of schedule. Link This early arrival effectively slammed the door on Bhutanese exports. Indian traders and consumers naturally gravitated toward the fresher, cheaper local produce. While Bhutanese farmers were still hoping to fetch premium prices for their stored crops, the market in India was being flooded with fresh potatoes selling for as little as Nu 10 to Nu 17 per kilogram. In some regions, cold-stored Indian potatoes were fetching a mere Nu 6, making the relatively more expensive Bhutanese produce uncompetitive. By late December 2025, the situation had become dire. Approximately 625 metric tonnes of Bhutanese potatoes sat unsold in Indian trading hubs like Falakata. In Bhutan, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MoAL) identified nearly 1,900 MT of unsold stocks still at the source across five dzongkhags (districts). Government Response and Immediate Relief During the 23rd “Meet-the-Press” session in Thimphu, Agriculture and Livestock Minister Lyonpo Younten Phuntsho acknowledged the gravity of the situation. He noted that while the government understands the farmers’ plight, “market forces beyond Bhutan’s control” have dictated the season’s outcome. The government has not remained idle. To prevent further losses, the MoAL and FCBL have taken several emergency measures: Market Saturation Warnings: Farmers were advised to stop bringing produce to auction yards to prevent total market collapse. Auction Extensions: The auction window in Phuentsholing was extended to late December to allow for the clearing of small additional volumes. Domestic Redistribution: The ministry has been actively reaching out to domestic vegetable importers and institutional buyers to absorb as much of the surplus as possible within Bhutan. Information Sharing: Telegram groups and awareness campaigns have been utilized to provide real-time price updates, helping farmers make more informed (if difficult) decisions about whether to sell or store. Link The Long-Term Path: Diversification and Resilience The 2025–2026 potato crisis serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of over-reliance on a single export market. For decades, India has been the primary—and often only—destination for Bhutanese potatoes. When the Indian market fluctuates, the shockwaves are felt directly in the valleys of Phobjikha and Bumthang. Minister Younten Phuntsho emphasized that the long-term solution lies in market diversification. The government is now looking more seriously at regional neighbors like Bangladesh and Nepal. These markets offer the potential to act as a “safety valve,” providing alternative destinations when the Indian market is saturated. Furthermore, there is a growing call for structural changes in how Bhutanese potatoes are marketed. The current crisis was exacerbated by a lack of demand for small-sized produce. Moving toward value-added processing—such as producing potato chips, starch, or frozen fries—could provide a way to utilize surplus crops that do not meet export size standards. Summary The potato has long been a symbol of Bhutanese agricultural pride, but the current slump highlights the fragility of an export-led economy tied to a single neighbor. While the immediate focus remains on clearing the unsold 1,900 MT of stock, the deeper lesson for Bhutanese farmers is one of caution. As climate patterns shift and regional markets become more volatile, the era of relying on “last year’s prices” to predict future success may be over. For the Bhutanese potato to remain a viable livelihood, the sector must evolve from simple cross-border trading to a more diversified, processed, and strategically marketed industry.

भूटान भारत के बाहर आलू निर्यात करने पर क्यों नजर डाल रहा है पीढ़ियों से, आलू भूटान में केवल एक प्रधान फसल से अधिक रहा है; यह हजारों उच्च ऊंचाई के किसानों के लिए एक जीवनदायिनी आर्थिक आधार है। हालांकि, जैसे ही 2026 की शुरूआत होती है, भूटान के खेत अनपेक्षित परिणामों और बाजार की अस्थिरता की कहानी सुनाते हैं। द स्टार और कुंसेल की हालिया रिपोर्टों के अनुसार, भूटान का आलू क्षेत्र वर्तमान में गंभीर संकट का सामना कर रहा है, क्योंकि भारतीय फसलों की जल्दी कटाई, घरेलू मूल्य में गिरावट और पिछले वर्ष की सफलता का “नशा” निर्यात को ठप्प कर चुका है। 2024 की छाया: उच्च उम्मीदों का एक जाल वर्तमान संकट को समझने के लिए, एक को 2024-2025 सीजन में वापस देखना होगा। उस अवधि में, भारत को प्रतिकूल मौसम और कम उपज के कारण आलू की गंभीर कमी का सामना करना पड़ा। इस आपूर्ति के अभाव ने भूटानी आलुओं की कीमतों को ऐतिहासिक ऊँचाई पर पहुंचा दिया, जिसमें कुछ किसानों को प्रति किलो 60 न्यूलट्रिन (लगभग 0.72 अमेरिकी डॉलर) से अधिक मिला। इन रिकॉर्ड तोड़ रिटर्न ने भूटान के उच्च पहाड़ी क्षेत्रों में एक शक्तिशाली संकेत भेजा। इस अचानक मि...
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How Saudi Arabia Turned Desert Sand into a Potato Export Powerhouse. In the middle of the Saudi Arabian desert, where the sun is relentless and water is scarce, something unexpected is happening. A landscape once thought to be too harsh for anything but the hardiest shrubs is now producing millions of tons of high-quality potatoes. What started as a struggle to feed a growing nation has turned into a massive business success story, with Saudi-grown potatoes now making their way into snack bags across Europe and Asia. For a long time, the idea of Saudi Arabia as a potato supplier seemed like a pipe dream. The challenges were everywhere: the soil was too sandy, the heat was too intense, and the water needed to keep crops alive was buried deep underground. But over the last decade, a mix of smart technology, government support, and private investment has flipped the script. Today, Saudi Arabia isn’t just growing potatoes for its own people—it’s becoming a global player in the export market. Link Connect Now Turning the Sand into an Advantage The Hail region has become the heart of this transformation. At first glance, the sandy soil of Hail looks like a problem, but farmers discovered it actually has a hidden benefit. Unlike the heavy, rocky clay found in other parts of the world, this soft, loose sand allows potatoes to grow in perfect, uniform shapes. This is a big deal for global food companies that need consistent sizes for things like potato chips. In the sandy fields of Hail, the potatoes don’t have to fight against hard earth to expand, resulting in a cleaner, smoother crop that requires less washing and processing. Solving the Water Puzzle The biggest hurdle has always been water. In a desert, you can’t afford to waste a single drop. To make potato farming viable, the industry had to move away from old-fashioned “flood” irrigation, which loses too much water to evaporation. Instead, farmers adopted high-tech drip irrigation systems. These systems deliver water and nutrients directly to the roots of the plants in precise amounts. This change alone cut water consumption by nearly 30%. By being careful with every gallon, Saudi farmers managed to increase their yields significantly. In some areas, productivity jumped to 50 or 60 tons per hectare—numbers that rival traditional farming hubs in Europe. Link The Power of Partnership This wasn’t a solo effort. The Saudi government worked closely with private companies, most notably PepsiCo. Because PepsiCo produces Lay’s potato chips, they needed a massive, reliable supply of potatoes that met strict international standards. The government stepped in to create “approved irrigation standards.” These rules ensured that while farmers were growing more, they weren’t draining the country’s precious aquifers at an unsustainable rate. This gave international buyers the confidence to trade with Saudi Arabia, knowing the crops were grown using modern, responsible methods. Today, Saudi Arabia is the second-largest hub for potato chip manufacturing in the world. Going Global The numbers tell a story of incredible growth. In 2023, Saudi potato production jumped by 47%, reaching over 620,000 tons. The country is now almost 87% self-sufficient when it comes to potatoes, meaning they hardly need to import them anymore. But the real surprise is the export market. For six years in a row, Saudi Arabia has been exporting potatoes to Russia. They also ship to Norway, Lebanon, Jordan, and Syria. It is a strange but impressive sight: a desert nation providing food to countries known for their cold climates and rich soil. Looking Toward the Future The success of the potato industry is a blueprint for the country’s “Vision 2030” plan, which aims to diversify the economy away from oil. It’s not just about the farming; it’s about the whole supply chain. Factories have been built to process the crops, and a new $8 million research and development center was recently opened to study how to grow even better crops with less water. They are also looking at the environment. With diesel costs rising, many farms are switching to solar power to run their irrigation pumps. This lowers the cost of farming and makes the whole process “greener.” Even the workforce is changing; many of these high-tech farms and processing plants are now staffed by young Saudis who are learning the ropes of modern agricultural science. Saudi Arabia has proven that with the right technology and a bit of determination, even the most difficult environment can be turned into a garden. The humble potato, once a “challenge crop” for the kingdom, is now a symbol of what the country can achieve. From the sands of Hail to the dinner tables of Moscow, the Saudi potato is officially on the map.

कैसे सऊदी अरब ने रेगिस्तान की रेत को आलू निर्यात का एक केंद्र बना दिया सऊदी अरब के रेगिस्तान के मध्य, जहां सूर्य निरंतर प्रज्वलित रहता है और पानी की कमी है, वहां कुछ अप्रत्याशित हो रहा है। एक ऐसा परिदृश्य जो केवल कठिन झाड़ियों के लिए बहुत कठोर माना जाता था, अब उच्च गुणवत्ता वाले आलू के लाखों टन का उत्पादन कर रहा है। जो संघर्ष एक बढ़ती हुई जनसंख्या के लिए भोजन प्राप्त करने का था, वह अब एक विशाल व्यवसाय की सफलता की कहानी बन गई है, सऊदी में उगाए गए आलू अब यूरोप और एशिया में स्नैक बैग में जा रहे हैं। काफी समय तक, सऊदी अरब को आलू आपूर्तिकर्ता के रूप में देखना एक सपना लगता था। चुनौतियाँ हर जगह थीं: मिट्टी बहुत रेतीली थी, गर्मी बहुत अधिक थी, और फसलों को जीवित रखने के लिए आवश्यक पानी जमीन के गहरे नीचे दबी हुई थी। लेकिन पिछले दशक में, स्मार्ट तकनीक, सरकारी समर्थन और निजी निवेश का मिश्रण कहानी को उलटने में सफल रहा है। आज, सऊदी अरब केवल अपने लोगों के लिए आलू नहीं उगा रहा है—यह निर्यात बाजार में एक वैश्विक खिलाड़ी बनता जा रहा है। रेत को लाभ में बदलना हैल क्षेत्र इस परिवर्तन का केंद्र बन गया है। पह...
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McCain’s ₹3,800 Crore Leap into Agar-Malwa Region of Madhya Pradesh. The landscape of Madhya Pradesh’s industrial sector is on the brink of a historic transformation. As we enter 2026, the district of Agar-Malwa is set to become the epicenter of a new “Golden Era” for the food processing industry. The catalyst for this change is the Canadian multinational giant, McCain Foods, which has officially launched its massive investment project in the region. With a staggering total investment of ₹3,800 crore, this venture promises to redefine the local economy, create thousands of jobs, and place Central India firmly on the global food processing map. A Strategic Investment for a New Era The project, situated in Phase-3 of the Agar-Malwa industrial area, represents one of the largest foreign direct investments (FDI) in Madhya Pradesh’s agricultural sector in recent years. According to reports from the Madhya Pradesh Industrial Development Corporation (MPIDC), the project will be executed in phases, with an initial deployment of ₹1,800 crore to get the facility operational. This is not just a factory; it is a comprehensive ecosystem. The Canadian giant, famous worldwide for its frozen potato products like French fries and “Potato Cheese Shotz,” chose Agar-Malwa due to its favorable climate, central logistics location, and the high quality of locally grown potatoes. This plant marks McCain’s second major production hub in India, following its long-standing and successful operations in Mehsana, Gujarat. Link Connect Now Empowering the “Annadata”: A Boon for Farmers For the potato farmers of the Malwa region, this news is nothing short of a revolution. Traditionally, farmers in districts like Agar, Ujjain, and Indore have struggled with market volatility, often forced to sell their produce at throwaway prices during surplus seasons. The arrival of McCain introduces a “Contract Farming” model that offers stability and prosperity. The company plans to engage with over 20,000 local farmers, providing them with: Specialized Seeds: High-quality, fry-grade potato seeds specifically developed for processing. Modern Technology: Training in advanced agricultural techniques to increase yield and meet international quality standards. Guaranteed Markets: A fixed-price buyback agreement that protects farmers from the whims of the open market. Link Potato industry experts estimate that the demand for potatoes in the region will surge. While the current local production is significant, McCain’s requirements are expected to be nearly 100 times higher than current procurement levels, with plans to purchase 60,000 to 70,000 tons of potatoes annually in the initial years, eventually scaling up to over 2.5 lakh tons. Employment: Thousands of Hands, One Vision Thousands of hands will have work.” The employment potential of this project is multi-dimensional. Directly, the plant is expected to employ over 2,000 individuals in roles ranging from machine operation and laboratory testing to quality control and administration. However, the indirect impact is even larger. MPIDC Executive Director Rajesh Rathod highlighted that the unit will serve as an “anchor,” attracting ancillary industries. This includes: Logistics & Transport: Thousands of truck trips will be required to move raw materials and finished frozen goods. Cold Storage: A massive demand for specialized cold chain infrastructure will create a secondary business boom. Packaging Units: Local small-scale industries will spring up to provide packaging materials for the products. Women’s Empowerment: The project specifically aims to open doors for women in the region, particularly in processing and packaging sectors, offering them a chance at financial independence. Infrastructure and Government Support The Madhya Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, has declared 2025-26 as the “Year of Industry and Employment.” The swift allotment of 70 acres of land in Agar-Malwa underscores the state’s commitment to making the region “investor-friendly.” The development isn’t limited to McCain. Taking a cue from this “anchor unit,” six other food processing firms have pledged a collective investment of over ₹4,500 crore in the Ujjain division. This includes big names like Prataap Snacks (Yellow Diamond) and Amitex Foods, creating a competitive yet collaborative industrial corridor that will rival India’s most established industrial hubs. A Future Frozen in Success The “McCain Effect” in Agar-Malwa exemplifies to how global investment can meet local agricultural strength to create a win-win scenario. For the youth of the district, it means they no longer need to migrate to big cities like Delhi or Mumbai in search of work. For the farmers, it means their “Gold of the Earth” (potatoes) finally has a value-added destination. As the first batches of French fries and cheese shots begin to roll off the production lines in 2026, they will carry with them the aspirations of a region that has finally found its industrial voice. The Malwa plateau is no longer just the “breadbasket” of India; it is on journey to become the “food processing capital” of the nation.

मैक्केन का ₹3,800 करोड़ का कदम मध्‍य प्रदेश के अagar-मालवा क्षेत्र में मध्‍य प्रदेश के औद्योगिक क्षेत्र का परिदृश्य ऐतिहासिक परिवर्तन की कगार पर है। जैसे ही हम 2026 में प्रवेश करते हैं, अगर-मालवा जिला खाद्य प्रसंस्करण उद्योग के लिए एक नए "स्वर्ण काल" का केंद्र बनने जा रहा है। इस परिवर्तन का उत्प्रेरक कैनेडियन बहुराष्ट्रीय दिग्गज, मैक्केन फूड्स है, जिसने आधिकारिक रूप से इस क्षेत्र में अपने विशाल निवेश परियोजना का शुभारंभ किया है। ₹3,800 करोड़ के आश्चर्यजनक कुल निवेश के साथ, यह उपक्रम स्थानीय अर्थव्यवस्था को नया रूप देने, हजारों रोजगार सृजित करने, और मध्य भारत को वैश्विक खाद्य प्रसंस्करण मानचित्र पर मजबूती से स्थापित करने का वादा करता है। एक नई Era के लिए एक रणनीतिक निवेश यह परियोजना अगर-मालवा औद्योगिक क्षेत्र के Phase-3 में स्थित है, जो हाल के वर्षों में मध्‍य प्रदेश के कृषि क्षेत्र में सबसे बड़े विदेशी प्रत्यक्ष निवेश (FDI) में से एक का प्रतिनिधित्व करती है। मध्‍य प्रदेश औद्योगिक विकास निगम (MPIDC) की रिपोर्टों के अनुसार, इस परियोजना को चरणों में लागू किया जाएगा, जिसमें इस सु...
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West Bengal’s Sanjoy Guha Roy Identifies Why Potato Crops Fail Every Year. In India, the potato is more than just a vegetable—it is a staple, a livelihood, and a cornerstone of food security—a silent enemy has long eluded the grasp of science. For decades, farmers in the Indo-Gangetic plains have watched in despair as their lush green fields turned into a blackened, rotting mass within days. This devastation is caused by Late Blight, a disease triggered by the notorious oomycete Phytophthora infestans. While the symptoms were well-known, the source of the recurring infection remained a subject of intense debate. A groundbreaking study led by Professor Sanjoy Guha Roy from the Department of Botany at West Bengal State University (Barasat) has finally unmasked the culprit. Published in the prestigious journal Phytopathology—the century-old flagship publication of the American Phytopathological Society—the research identifies seed potatoes as the primary reservoir for the disease. Specifically, the study reveals that even “high-tech” seed potatoes, produced under laboratory conditions, harbor hidden, dormant infections that bridge the gap between cropping seasons. The Historical Ghost and Modern Economic Toll To understand the weight of this discovery, one must look back at the 1840s. Phytophthora infestans was the primary cause of the Great Irish Potato Famine, which led to the death of over a million people and changed the course of history through mass migration. In modern India, the second-largest potato producer in the world, the pathogen remains a formidable foe. Link According to the research team, Late Blight claims approximately 15% of India’s total potato production annually. In monetary terms, this translates to a staggering loss of roughly ₹2,700 crore. In years where the disease takes an epidemic form, the losses can be even more catastrophic, pushing debt-ridden farmers to the brink of suicide. Despite the use of expensive fungicides, the disease frequently returns, leading scientists to ask: where does the pathogen hide during the blistering Indian summer when the soil temperature becomes too high for it to survive? The Myth of Soil-Borne Survival In many parts of the world, Late Blight survives in the soil through thick-walled structures called oospores. However, in the tropical and sub-tropical plains of India, the intense heat of the “off-season” (summer) was long thought to be lethal to the pathogen. Some experts theorized that the infection migrated every year from the cooler Himalayan regions or survived in alternative host plants. Professor Guha Roy’s research has effectively debunked these theories for the Indian plains. Through rigorous soil testing and experimental trials under high-temperature conditions, the team found no evidence of the pathogen surviving in the soil between seasons. Instead, they turned their attention to the seed tubers themselves. The study involved testing over 7,000 seed potatoes that appeared perfectly healthy to the naked eye. Using advanced molecular diagnostics and genetic analysis, the researchers discovered that approximately 1.6% of these “healthy” seeds were actually asymptomatic carriers. These tubers contained the pathogen in a dormant state, waiting for the cooler, humid conditions of the winter planting season to reactivate and spread to the rest of the crop. The Paradox of High-Tech Seed Production One of the most alarming findings of the study is that even modern seed production systems are not immune. Today, many farmers rely on seeds produced via tissue culture in specialized labs. These “Pre-Basic” seeds are initially pathogen-free. However, before they reach the farmer, they must be “multiplied” in the field or in greenhouses (often called net-houses or glasshouses) to produce enough volume for commercial sale. Link The researchers identified this multiplication phase as the critical point of failure. In many potato-growing regions, such as Punjab and West Bengal, these seed-multiplication nurseries are located in close proximity to commercial potato fields. During the growing season, spores from infected commercial crops can easily find their way into the supposedly “protected” greenhouses through wind or human activity. Once the seed plants are infected, the pathogen hitches a ride inside the newly formed tubers, where it remains hidden throughout the summer storage period. The European Connection: A More Aggressive Lineage The research also provided a genetic profile of the enemy. The dominant strain currently wreaking havoc in India belongs to the “European clonal lineage,” specifically the genotype known as EU_13_A2. This lineage is significantly more aggressive than the strains previously found in India. It is also notably resistant to Metalaxyl, one of the most commonly used and affordable fungicides. The presence of this lineage explains why recent outbreaks have been so swift and difficult to control. By surviving inside the seed potato, this aggressive strain ensures its survival across seasons, effectively “seeding” the next epidemic even before the farmer has finished planting. Identifying the “Stem Lesion” Clue The study sheds light on how the disease begins its visible assault. In many cases, the infection starts not on the leaves, but as small, dark lesions on the stem of the plant. These stem lesions often go unnoticed by farmers in the early stages. However, they serve as a factory for spores that quickly wash down into the soil or blow across the field, leading to the rapid-fire destruction characteristic of Late Blight. The identification of stem-focused infection pathways is crucial for improving early warning systems. If farmers can be trained to look for these early indicators on the stems of emerging plants, they may be able to take preventative action before the entire field is compromised. A Roadmap for the Future The recognition of Professor Guha Roy’s work as an “Editor’s Pick” in Phytopathology highlights its global significance. It provides a clear directive for policymakers and agricultural scientists in India and other developing nations. To break the cycle of Late Blight, the following steps are essential: Stricter Certification and Monitoring: Current seed certification processes must include molecular testing for asymptomatic infections. Relying on visual inspection alone is clearly insufficient. Strategic Relocation of Nurseries: Seed multiplication should be moved to “blight-free” zones or areas geographically isolated from commercial potato crops to prevent cross-contamination. Modern Diagnostic Kits: There is an urgent need to develop affordable, field-level diagnostic kits that can help seed producers and government agencies identify latent infections in stored tubers. Integrated Management: Since the pathogen is now known to be seed-borne, farmers should be encouraged to use certified, tested seeds and adopt “prophylactic” (preventative) fungicide applications rather than waiting for symptoms to appear. Conclusion The work of the West Bengal State University research team marks a turning point in the fight against one of the world’s most devastating plant diseases. By identifying the humble seed potato as the secret hideout for Phytophthora infestans, they have provided the missing link in the epidemiological chain. As India strives to ensure food security for its growing population, protecting the potato crop is non-negotiable. This discovery not only honors the scientific excellence emerging from Bengal but also offers a beacon of hope for millions of farmers whose livelihoods depend on the health of their tubers. The “Silent Saboteur” has been found; the next challenge lies in making sure it has nowhere left to hide.

पश्चिम बंगाल के संजय गुहा रॉय ने पहचान की है कि हर साल आलू की फसलें क्यों असफल होती हैं। भारत में, आलू केवल एक सब्जी नहीं है—यह एक मुख्य खाद्य पदार्थ, जीवन यापन का साधन और खाद्य सुरक्षा का आधार है—एक मौन दुश्मन लंबे समय से विज्ञान की पकड़ से बाहर रहा है। दशकों से, इंडो-गंगेय मैदानों में किसान निराशा से देखते आ रहे हैं जब उनकी हरी-भरी फसलें कुछ ही दिनों में काले, सड़ते ढेर में बदल जाती हैं। यह विनाश लेट ब्लाइट द्वारा होता है, जो कुख्यात ओमीसाइट फाइटोफ्थोरा इंफेस्टन्स द्वारा उत्प्रेरित बीमारी है। जबकि लक्षण अच्छे से ज्ञात थे, पुनरावर्ती संक्रमण का स्रोत गहन बहस का विषय बना रहा। पश्चिम बंगाल राज्य विश्वविद्यालय (बराकपुर) के वनस्पति विज्ञान विभाग के प्रोफेसर संजय गुहा रॉय द्वारा किए गए एक क्रांतिकारी अध्ययन ने अंततः दोषी को बेनकाब कर दिया है। प्रतिष्ठित जर्नल फाइटोपैथोलॉजी में प्रकाशित—अमेरिकन फाइटोपैथोलॉजिकल सोसाइटी का शताब्दी पुराना प्रमुख प्रकाशन—यह शोध बीमारियों के प्राथमिक भंडार के रूप में आलू के बीजों की पहचान करता है। विशेष रूप से, अध्ययन में यह खुलासा किया गया है कि यहां तक कि “उच्...
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Why a Bumper Harvest is Spelling Trouble for Punjab’s Doaba Potato Farmers. In the heart of Punjab’s fertile Doaba region, the arrival of the potato harvesting season is usually a time of bustling activity and economic hope. However, this year, the sprawling green fields of Jalandhar and Kapurthala are clouded by a sense of deep unease. For the farmers of this “potato belt,” a combination of leftover stocks from the previous year and the prospect of an exceptionally high output this season has created a paradoxical crisis of plenty. While a bumper crop is typically celebrated, for the potato growers of Punjab, it has become a harbinger of financial distress. The market is currently grappling with a supply-demand imbalance that threatens to push farm-gate prices below the cost of production, leaving many questioning the viability of their hard work. The Glut from Yesterday The roots of the current crisis lie in the tail end of the previous agricultural cycle. Last year, Punjab witnessed a highly productive season, but the market failed to absorb the entirety of the harvest. Significant quantities of potatoes remained in cold storage, unsold and waiting for a price correction that never materialized. Link As the new harvest begins, these old stocks continue to sit in warehouses, occupying space and dampening the demand for fresh produce. This overlap is a critical factor in the current price slump. When fresh potatoes enter a market already saturated with old stock, the immediate consequence is a sharp decline in wholesale rates. For many Doaba farmers, the struggle isn’t just about selling this year’s crop; it’s about clearing the debts incurred from the one that didn’t sell last year. Prices on the Brink The early varieties of potatoes, such as Kufri Pukhraj, are already hitting the market. These 60-day crops are essential for maintaining a farmer’s cash flow. However, the current farm-gate prices are hovering around ₹6 to ₹7 per kilogram. According to local agricultural representatives, these rates barely cover the basic input costs—seeds, fertilizers, diesel, and labor. Jaswinder Sangha, a prominent voice in the Jalandhar Potato Growers Association, has pointed out that at these rates, there is zero profit margin. “We are just at par with the expenses,” he noted, reflecting a sentiment shared by thousands. Without a profit margin, farmers find it impossible to reinvest in the next cropping cycle or service the high-interest loans often taken from local commission agents or banks. A Nationwide Surplus The crisis is not confined to Punjab alone. Agriculture is a national network, and this year, several major potato-producing states—including West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha—are assumed to report higher-than-average production. Link Historically, Punjab has served as the “seed hub” for the rest of the country. Doaba farmers take pride in producing high-quality seeds that are exported to the eastern and southern states. However, logistical hurdles and political events elsewhere have disrupted this vital trade link. For instance, recent elections in Bihar and labor shortages in West Bengal have slowed down the off-loading of Punjab’s seed consignments. Delays in transportation, exacerbated by unseasonal weather in some regions, have led to some supplies rotting in transit, adding physical loss to financial injury. The Double-Edged Sword of Technology Interestingly, the very innovations that have made Doaba farmers world leaders in potato production are now contributing to the oversupply. The region has seen a surge in the use of advanced agricultural technologies. Many farmers have established private tissue culture laboratories, allowing them to multiply high-yield varieties sourced from the Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI) in Kufri. Techniques like aeroponics—growing plants in an air or mist environment without soil—have also gained traction, significantly boosting the output of virus-free potato seeds. While this technological leap exemplifies the Punjab farmer’s progressive mindset, it has also led to a production capacity that currently outstrips the market’s ability to consume or export. The Weather Factor: A Fickle Friend In a typical year, farmers worry about “Late Blight,” a devastating fungal disease triggered by fog, smog, and frost. This year, the weather has been unusually clear. While the absence of blight is a relief, it also means that the survival rate of the crop is nearly 100%. As Jang Bahadur Sangha, one of the region’s largest growers, observed, if the weather remains clear for another fortnight, the region will see a massive bumper crop of varieties like Kufri Chandramukhi, Kufri Jyoti, and Diamond. In a stable market, this would be a windfall. In a saturated market, every extra bag of potatoes harvested further depresses the price, turning nature’s bounty into an economic burden. The Consumer-Politician Nexus vs. The Grower There is a growing sense of frustration among farmers regarding the “demand-supply ratio.” While low potato prices are a boon for urban consumers and a relief for politicians looking to keep food inflation in check, the grower is the one subsidizing this cheap food with their own losses. Farmers argue that there is a lack of a robust government intervention mechanism to stabilize prices during a glut. Unlike wheat and paddy, which benefit from the Minimum Support Price (MSP) and government procurement, potatoes are largely left to the mercy of the open market. When the market fails, the farmer has no safety net. Summary The potato farmers of Doaba are among the most resilient and innovative in the world. They have turned a humble tuber into a regional powerhouse. Yet, as they stand amidst fields of plenty, they face a future of uncertainty. The sight of farm workers diligently gathering the new harvest should be one of prosperity, but without structural changes to the market and government support, it remains a cycle of struggle. For the Doaba farmer, the hope now rests on a miracle of the market—or perhaps a lesson for the policy-makers: that a bumper crop should never be a cause for worry in a country that prides itself on its agricultural heritage. Until then, the surplus stocks remain a heavy weight on the shoulders of those who feed the nation. Inputs from : The Tribune

पंजाब के दोआबा आलू किसानों के लिए बम्पर फसल क्यों परेशानी का सबब बन रही है। पंजाब के उपजाऊ दोआबा क्षेत्र के दिल में आलू की फसल कटाई का मौसम आमतौर पर व्यस्तता और आर्थिक आशा का समय होता है। हालाँकि, इस वर्ष जलंधर और कपूरथला के फैले हुए हरे खेतों में गहरी चिंता की भावना छाई हुई है। इस "आलू बेल्ट" के किसानों के लिए, पिछले वर्ष के बचे हुए स्टॉक्स और इस मौसम में असाधारण उच्च उत्पादन की संभावना ने abundance की एक विरोधाभासी संकट उत्पन्न कर दिया है। जबकि बम्पर फसल को आमतौर पर मनाया जाता है, पंजाब के आलू उत्पादकों के लिए, यह वित्तीय संकट का एक सूचक बन गया है। बाजार इस समय एक आपूर्ति-प्रतिदान असंतुलन का सामना कर रहा है जो कृषि द्वार मूल्य को उत्पादन लागत से नीचे धकेलने की धमकी दे रहा है, जिससे कई लोग अपने कड़ी मेहनत की व्यवहार्यता पर सवाल उठा रहे हैं। पिछले वर्ष का अधिशेष वर्तमान संकट की जड़ें पिछले कृषि चक्र के अंत में हैं। पिछले वर्ष, पंजाब ने एक अत्यधिक उत्पादक मौसम का अनुभव किया, लेकिन बाजार ने फसल के संपूर्ण स्टॉक को समाहित करने में असफलता दिखाई। आलू की महत्वपूर्ण मात्रा कोल्ड स्ट...
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How Ohh! Potato and TraceX are Transforming India’s Potato Supply Chain. In India, the humble potato is more than just a kitchen staple; it is a vital economic engine. As India cements its position as one of the world’s largest potato producers, the industry faces a modern crossroads: the need for greater transparency, food safety, and efficiency. To meet these challenges, Ohh! Potato, a prominent processing brand under McPatel Foods, has announced a strategic partnership with TraceX Technologies. This collaboration aims to digitize the entire potato supply chain using blockchain technology, setting a new benchmark for the agri-food sector in India. A Digital Leap for Potato Processing In India The partnership represents a significant shift from traditional, often opaque potato practices to a data-driven ecosystem. By integrating TraceX’s blockchain-enabled traceability platform into its operations, McPatel Foods is moving toward a future where every potato can be tracked from the moment it is planted in the soil to the time it reaches the processing facility and, eventually, the consumer. Blockchain technology acts as an immutable digital ledger. Unlike traditional record-keeping, which is prone to human error or manipulation, blockchain ensures that every data point—be it seed quality, fertilizer usage, or harvest date—is recorded securely. This level of integrity is crucial for a brand like Ohh! Potato, which relies on consistent quality to maintain its market position in the competitive snacks and processing industry. Strengthening the Farm-to-Fork Connection One of the most immediate benefits of this partnership is the empowerment of the potato farmer network. India’s potato supply chains are historically fragmented, with vital information often lost between multiple intermediaries. The TraceX platform provides McPatel Foods with real-time visibility into potato farm-level activities. For potato farmers, this digitization means better agronomic support. With accurate data on crop performance and soil health, Ohh! Potato can provide more tailored advice, helping farmers improve yields and reduce waste. Furthermore, by documenting sustainable farming practices, farmers can prove the value of their produce, potentially opening doors to performance-based incentives and premium markets.   View The Full History Of Potatoes at McPatel Click Here Enhancing Food Safety and Quality Assurance For the processing side of the business, consistency is king. The quality of a processed potato product—whether it be chips, fries, or flakes—is directly linked to the raw material’s characteristics, such as starch content and moisture levels. By having a “digital twin” of the crop before it even arrives at the factory, McPatel Foods can optimize its processing schedules and parameters. If a specific batch of potatoes shows certain characteristics on the digital ledger, the plant can adjust its machinery accordingly, reducing operational risk and ensuring that every bag of Ohh! Potato products meets high-quality standards. Moreover, in an era where consumers are increasingly concerned about food safety, the ability to provide verifiable proof of origin is a massive competitive advantage. If a quality issue ever arises, the blockchain system allows the company to trace the problem back to the specific farm or batch in seconds, rather than days, ensuring rapid response and consumer protection. Leadership and Vision The driving force behind this transformative initiative is Vaibhav Trambadiya, Co-Founder & Head Business Transformation, McPatel Foods Private Limited. Mr. Trambadiya spearheaded the strategic vision to leverage cutting-edge technology, like TraceX’s blockchain platform, to address the systemic challenges of transparency and efficiency in the potato supply chain. His leadership was crucial in aligning the operational needs of Ohh! Potato with the robust traceability solutions required to meet both domestic quality standards and evolving global sustainability mandates. Meeting Global Standards and Sustainability Goals in Potato Industry The global market is changing. International buyers and domestic retailers are no longer satisfied with simple verbal assurances of quality. They demand documented evidence of sustainability and ethical sourcing. The Ohh! Potato and TraceX partnership is a proactive response to these evolving regulatory and commercial expectations. As sustainability becomes a central pillar of corporate strategy, the ability to track the environmental footprint of a crop—such as water usage and chemical inputs—is becoming mandatory. The TraceX platform allows McPatel Foods to build “verifiable sustainability credentials.” This not only helps in complying with international food safety standards but also positions the brand as a leader in responsible agribusiness. A Roadmap for the Future of Indian Potato Processing. The collaboration between McPatel Foods and TraceX Technologies is more than just a corporate deal; it is a blueprint for the modernization of the Indian horticultural sector. It highlights the convergence of agri-tech (digital infrastructure) and food processing (scale and sourcing). As the demand for processed potato products continues to surge in India, driven by urbanization and changing dietary habits, the supply chain must evolve. Moving away from manual, paper-based processes toward digital transparency is no longer an “optional add-on”—it is a necessity for survival and growth. Summary The partnership between Ohh! Potato and TraceX marks a milestone in India’s journey toward a resilient, future-ready food system. By leveraging blockchain to create a “glass pipeline” from farm to factory, the two companies are addressing the core challenges of transparency, efficiency, and trust. For the consumer, it means a safer and higher-quality product. For the farmer, it means better support and fairer valuation. For the industry, it signals a new era where technology and tradition work hand-in-hand to feed a growing nation while meeting the highest global standards. As other players in the agri-food space look on, the McPatel–TraceX initiative stands as a powerful example of how digital innovation can transform the humble potato into a symbol of modern, sustainable agriculture.

कैसे ओह! आलू और ट्रेसएक्स भारत की आलू आपूर्ति श्रृंखला को परिवर्तित कर रहे हैं। भारत में, साधारण आलू केवल रसोई का मुख्य भोजन नहीं है; यह एक महत्वपूर्ण आर्थिक इंजन है। जैसे-जैसे भारत दुनिया के सबसे बड़े आलू उत्पादकों में अपनी स्थिति मजबूत कर रहा है, उद्योग एक आधुनिक मोड़ पर है: बेहतर पारदर्शिता, खाद्य सुरक्षा और दक्षता की आवश्यकता। इन चुनौतियों का सामना करने के लिए, ओह! आलू, जो कि मैकपेटल फूड्स के तहत एक प्रमुख प्रोसेसिंग ब्रांड है, ने ट्रेसएक्स टेक्नोलॉजीज के साथ एक सामरिक साझेदारी की घोषणा की है। यह सहयोग ब्लॉकचेन तकनीक का उपयोग करके पूरे आलू आपूर्ति श्रृंखला को डिजिटल बनाने का लक्ष्य रखता है, जो भारत के कृषि-खाद्य क्षेत्र के लिए एक नई मानक स्थापित करता है। भारत में आलू प्रोसेसिंग के लिए एक डिजिटल छलांग यह साझेदारी पारंपरिक, अक्सर अस्पष्ट आलू प्रथाओं से डेटा-आधारित पारिस्थितिकी तंत्र की दिशा में एक महत्वपूर्ण बदलाव का प्रतिनिधित्व करती है। ट्रेसएक्स के ब्लॉकचेन-सक्षम ट्रेसेबलिटी प्लेटफॉर्म को अपनी संचालन में शामिल करके, मैकपेटल फूड्स एक ऐसे भविष्य की ओर बढ़ रहा है जहाँ हर आलू को मिट्ट...
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Bulk Frozen French Fries Quality Guide for Global Buyers & HORECA. The frozen potato product market was valued at over USD 65 billion this year and is projected to increase to nearly USD 89.5 billion by the year 2029, which translates into an approximate compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6%. This growth is attributed to consumers being able to shop for frozen potatoes convincingly.  In fact, there is a significant increase in the demand and consumption of global frozen potato products and that is driving the need for easy and accessible solutions for bulk frozen french fries in retail and food service outlets. But, in all the context quality must not be compromised. So, let’s understand the mandatory quality checklist to consider when purchasing frozen fries for global markets for optimal quality results. Potato Raw Material Matters: Starting With the Right Tuber Premium frozen french fries products begin in the soil from where they originate including dry matter (DM) potato varieties. These frozen fry products generally come for processing rather than table use. Take a look why it matters the most today in the market: Potatoes with approximately 20-23% DM are the most desirable potato varieties for making frozen fry products. The reason being they produce firmer fry products with much lower oil uptake when fried. The lower oil uptake of the fry may result in an enhanced mouthfeel and a healthier fry product. In addition to high dry matter content, potatoes used for making frozen fry products must also have a low reducing sugar content, typically less than 0.2% by weight. This avoids excessive browning or dark coloration on the fry when fried. This low reducing sugar content guarantees the fry and maintains their uniform appearance. Selected tubers for fry production must be uniform in shape and size and have long, straight profiles. This provides consumers with uniform strip shapes across the variances in fry production. This characteristic creates an evenly cooked fry product and also creates an attractive presentation of fry products across all environments of fry service. Link Production Process & Technology — Critical for Final Quality An optimized production process involving the steps of peeling, cutting, blanching, drying, frying, freezing (IQF) and packaging is essential to having high quality bulk frozen french fries. As per the leading french fries supplier in the business, BR Global Trade pens down the necessary steps followed in the production for attaining optimal quality. Blanching & Par-frying: Fresh potatoes are first blanched to deactivate the enzymes that produce surface sugars and then par-fried to create moisture barriers while developing a crust on the outer surface. The initial frying step is very important in limiting the amount of oil absorbed during the final cooking process. IQF Freezing: IQF results in fries being quickly frozen to a temperature of -40°C. This process of quickly freezing prevents the formation of large ice crystals, which damages the integrity of the cellular structure of the fries. This leads to crunchy fries with minimal clumping, even after long logistics chains. Moisture Control: Drying after blanching is a method of removing moisture from the surface of the fries. Removing excess moisture after frying prevents frost formation and freezer burn during storage and transportation. Oil Quality & Frying Procedures: Using quality oils and using specific frying procedures allows for maintaining the quality of oil over time. This increases the shelf-life of the fries and produces fried potatoes that are healthier to eat. Hygiene & Safety: All processing plants have achieved and maintain HACCP and ISO hygiene standards to help protect low-microbial loads necessary for both domestic consumers and those who export products internationally. Link Connect Now Key Quality Parameters Buyers Should Verify Buyers placing large-volume orders should evaluate certain quality criteria and obtain documentation from their potato fries supplier that verifies the quality of products: Cut Size and Uniformity: The cut size for french fries must be uniform, for example 9mm ± 0.5mm. Moisture Remaining on French Fries: Moisture remaining on french fries after blanching must be low or no moisture remaining on french fries should be frozen . Absorption of Oil After Frying: This should be below or equal to 15% for optimal texture and a healthier fry product. Absence of Defects: Broken pieces and/or discoloration should be avoided as this will reduce the yield of french fries. Microbiological Testing: A low bacteria and low fungi count is supported by laboratory testing to guarantee the safety of french fries for export. Shelf Life and Cold Chain Maintenance: A shelf life has been established with the requirement that the french fries must be kept at -18°C throughout the entire cold chain. Certifications, Compliance & Export-Ready Documentation Global market regulations require exporters to be recognized internationally with HACCP, ISO 22000, BRC and IFS certifications. These certifications are required in order to sell french fries products into Europe, Gulf Countries or North America. Customers in the Halal or Kosher markets will need to have these qualifications documented. Completing traceability is the foundation to compliance by providing: lot number, origin of potatoes, date of processing, certificates of laboratory testing & complete records of cold chain. Well-documented compliance provides a lower risk of being rejected during shipment, allows for a faster process to clear customs and creates confidence with buyers. Link Sampling & Sensory Evaluation — Don’t Skip The Real-World Test Before ordering large quantities of product, it is essential to obtain product samples. After obtaining product samples, fry the product directly from frozen using the manufacturer’s recommended cooking temperature (generally 180 degrees Celsius) while performing sensory evaluations on the following attributes: Crispness Texture, Colour Oiliness Taste It is common practice for global customers to conduct sensory evaluations of products using standardized scorecards (1-9 rating system) when comparing multiple batches of the same product. This is done with emphasis on the following product evaluations like: Visual appeal, Texture, Flavour, Frying characteristics For HORECA customers, a hold-over evaluation will provide the customer with assurance that the product will maintain the level of quality during hold time after being plated for 10-15 minutes before being consumed by guests. Packaging, Cold-Chain & Logistics — Ensuring Integrity Until Delivery Here are the essentials that is being maintained in terms of packaging and logistics for ensuring quality maintained throughout: Food-grade plastic bags or polyethylene, moisture-resistant packaging, and cardboard or insulated packaging are commonly used by leading suppliers like BR Global Trade for their products. Temperatures maintained in refrigerated containers using temperature-logger technology, at temperatures of -18°C or below, maintain the product’s integrity from the time of manufacture through transport to the final destination. Palletization is an essential factor in ensuring that products are not damaged during the process of packing, while maximising the cube of the shipping container. Importers are advised to request the cold-chain log and a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for regulatory compliance and traceability. The quantity of product lost due to spoilage and the amount of product returned are minimised through the use of quality-control systems throughout the entire supply chain. These measures are especially important for suppliers importing frozen french fries into markets that have special sensitivity requirements. Supplier Evaluation Checklist It is necessary for the buyer to confirm before selecting their supplier(s) that: The supplier has accurate and complete documentation of the origin and variety specifications of potatoes. The supplier has documentation to support that they are following all aspects of approved processing of potatoes, such as blanching, par-frying, IQF, etc. The supplier has provided the buyer with the latest lab analysis results for dry matter content, oil absorption, and microbial safety of the products. The supplier has received any relevant certifications (HACCP, ISO, Halal/Kosher) for the products. The supplier has demonstrated an ability to provide consistent sensorial performance; the buyer may verify this through sample frying. The supplier uses solid packaging and follows best practices for cold chain management. The supplier achieves consistent supply volumes, can trace back to specific batches, and provides a consistent shelf life. Once the above steps have been taken, the buyer can confidently source their bulk frozen fries without any issues with quality at all. Trends & Market Insights There is a growing demand from both the global HORECA and QSR sectors for low oil-absorption and air fryer-friendly fries. Suppliers are continually refining their tuber varieties for freezing and par-frying procedures. Import regulations are becoming stricter in all countries across Europe, the Gulf region, and Africa. As a result, it is increasingly important for exporters to establish traceability and quality certification to prevent delays or refusals of shipments. Conclusion A combination of selected high quality raw potatoes, careful manipulation through processing, strict control of the cold supply chain, and comprehensive laboratory testing represent the “victory process” to provide reliable frozen french fried potatoes. Buyers (especially in the global HORECA and institutional channels) should view frozen french fried potatoes as a technical premium product that requires a thorough analysis of the supplier and rigorous testing of the samples provided along with proof of their compliance to that analysis. Having established these checkpoints will allow for large volumes of wholesale frozen french fried potatoes to have a consistent product that is a cost effective, high yield item that has minimal waste and maximises the satisfaction of both the buyer and the end consumer. Arif Basher , Co Founder @ BR Global Trade About the Author – Visit Linkedin Profile

थोक फ्रोज़न फ्रेंच फ्राइज़ गुणवत्ता गाइड वैश्विक खरीदारों और HORECA के लिए। इस वर्ष जमे हुए आलू उत्पादों का बाजार मूल्य 65 अरब अमेरिकी डॉलर से अधिक था और 2029 तक यह लगभग 89.5 अरब अमेरिकी डॉलर तक बढ़ने की संभावना है, जो एक अनुमानित संयोजित वार्षिक वृद्धि दर (CAGR) 6% में परिवर्तित होता है। इस वृद्धि का श्रेय उपभोक्ताओं को फ्रोज़न आलू खरीदने की क्षमता को दिया जा सकता है। दरअसल, वैश्विक जमे हुए आलू उत्पादों की मांग और खपत में महत्वपूर्ण वृद्धि हो रही है और यह थोक फ्रोज़न फ्रेंच फ्राइज़ के लिए आसान और सुलभ समाधानों की आवश्यकता को प्रेरित कर रहा है, जो खुदरा और खाद्य सेवा आउटलेट में है। लेकिन, इस सभी संदर्भ में गुणवत्ता से समझौता नहीं किया जाना चाहिए। तो, चलिए समझते हैं कि वैश्विक बाजारों के लिए फ्रोज़न फ्राइज़ खरीदते समय अनुकूल गुणवत्ता परिणाम के लिए किन अनिवार्य गुणवत्ता चेकलिस्टों पर ध्यान देना चाहिए। आलू कच्चा माल महत्वपूर्ण है: सही कंद से शुरू करना प्रिमियम फ्रोज़न फ्रेंच फ्राइज़ उत्पाद उन मिट्टियों में शुरू होते हैं जहाँ से वे उत्पन्न होते हैं, जिसमें सूखे पदार्थ (DM) आलू की किस्में शामिल हैं...
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China and India Now Command 70% of Philippines Potato Fry Market. The landscape of the Philippines’ potato fry import market is undergoing a seismic shift. The traditional dominance of high-priced Western suppliers is being challenged by a surge in exports from China and India. These two nations have rapidly expanded their footprint, now commanding a combined 70% of the market share, up from just 47% in the previous period. This transformation comes at a time when the Philippines’ fry imports have hit record levels, reaching just below 200,000 tonnes annually. While the nation’s economy faces headwinds from natural disasters and corruption scandals, the sheer number of competing suppliers suggests that the upward trajectory of imports will continue. The Rise of China and India In October 2025 alone, China and India each secured a 35% share of the fry import market. Total monthly imports grew to 17,561 tonnes, a 16.3% increase from the previous year. China: Exported 6,260 tonnes in October, an 85.8% increase year-on-year. Its annual volume has skyrocketed by 121.5% to 72,457 tonnes. India: Exported 6,249 tonnes in October, up 65.9% from the previous year. India’s total volume for the November–October period stands at 57,477 tonnes, a 21.4% increase. The primary driver behind this growth is price. The average import price in October dropped by 11.9% compared to the year before, settling at approximately ₹92,945/tonne. Link Connect Now Competitive Pricing and Market Dynamics China and India have established themselves as the “low-priced” alternatives, putting significant pressure on traditional suppliers like the United States and Belgium. Supplier October Price (Peso/tonne) Price in Indian Rupee (₹/tonne)* % Price Change (YoY) China ₱55,736 ₹86,447 -11.2% India ₱55,863 ₹86,644 -5.7% USA ₱68,551 ₹106,322 -6.9% Belgium ₱61,988 ₹96,144 -22.2% New Zealand ₱84,499 ₹131,050 +2.9% Australia ₱87,868 ₹136,277 N/A *Based on an exchange rate of 1 PHP = 1.551 INR (Dec 2025). In October, China was the cheapest supplier at ₹86,447/tonne, despite a slight month-on-month price increase. India followed closely, with its import price dropping by approx. ₹4,730 during the same period. Struggles of Traditional Suppliers The rise of Asian suppliers has directly impacted the United States, previously the market leader. United States: Sales in October fell to 2,795 tonnes, a sharp 46.1% decrease compared to the previous year. This occurred despite the US reducing its price by 6.9%. For the full year, US import volumes are down 32.3%. Belgium: Experienced an 11.6% drop in October sales, falling to 1,034 tonnes. Netherlands: Saw a drastic 70% decline in October sales to 398 tonnes, although its annual volume decline is a less severe 47.4%. Conversely, New Zealand and Australia are finding niches despite much higher prices. New Zealand sales jumped 189.7% in October, even at a premium price of ₹131,050/tonne. Australia, entering from “nowhere,” has managed to sell 4,493 tonnes over the year at the highest price point in the market (₹136,277/tonne). Link Fresh Potato Trends While processed fries dominate the conversation, the Philippines also imported 3,183 tonnes of fresh potatoes in October, a 28.6% increase from the prior year. The US remains a key player here, supplying 2,435 tonnes, while Germany provided 748 tonnes at a significantly lower price point—roughly ₹31,727/tonne. Future Outlook Despite potential economic “headwinds” such as natural disasters, the Philippine fry market remains robust. The total annual import value has reached approximately ₹21.08 billion) representing a 6.6% increase in value despite lower average prices. With China and India aggressively capturing volume and newer players like Australia establishing a foothold, the market is more competitive than ever. Importers now benefit from a diverse range of suppliers, ensuring that even if one region faces supply issues, the “overall direction” of the market remains upward.

चीन और भारत अब फिलीपींस के आलू फ्राई बाजार का 70% नियंत्रित कर रहे हैं। फिलीपींस के आलू फ्राई आयात बाजार का परिदृश्य एक बड़े बदलाव से गुजर रहा है। उच्च कीमत वाले पश्चिमी आपूर्तिकर्ताओं की पारंपरिक ह dominance को चीन और भारत से निर्यात में वृद्धि की चुनौती मिल रही है। इन दोनों देशों ने तेजी से अपने प्रभाव का विस्तार किया है, अब वे मिलकर बाजार हिस्सेदारी का 70% नियंत्रित करते हैं, जो पिछले दौर में केवल 47% थी। यह परिवर्तन उस समय आ रहा है जब फिलीपींस के फ्राई आयात रिकॉर्ड स्तर पर पहुंच गए हैं, जो वार्षिक रूप से लगभग 200,000 टन के निकट है। जबकि देश की अर्थव्यवस्था प्राकृतिक आपदाओं और भ्रष्टाचार के कांडों से मुश्किलों का सामना कर रही है, प्रतिस्पर्धी आपूर्तिकर्ताओं की संख्या यह संकेत देती है कि आयात की upward trajectory जारी रहेगी। चीन और भारत की वृद्धि अक्टूबर 2025 में ही, चीन और भारत ने प्रत्येक ने फ्राई आयात बाजार का 35% हिस्सा सुरक्षित किया। कुल मासिक आयात 17,561 टन तक बढ़ गया, जो पिछले वर्ष से 16.3% की वृद्धि है। चीन: अक्टूबर में 6,260 टन का निर्यात किया, जो वर्ष दर वर्ष 85.8% की वृद्ध...
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Why Bangladesh Holds Just 0.01% of the Global Potato Market. Bangladesh often ranks as the seventh-largest potato producer globally, with an output that frequently exceeds 11 million tonnes annually. Yet, this remarkable success on the farm masks a severe economic paradox: the nation’s presence on the international stage is almost invisible. Despite its colossal harvest, Bangladesh holds a minuscule share—estimated at less than 0.01%—of the world’s colossal $120 billion potato market. This staggering imbalance between domestic production might and global market reach is the root cause of a recurring agricultural crisis that leaves farmers reeling from massive losses almost every season. The core of the problem lies in a chronic “crisis of plenty.” With annual production figures consistently soaring past 11 million tonnes and domestic consumption hovering around 8 to 9 million tonnes, the country is left with a yearly surplus ranging from 2.5 million to over 4 million tonnes. For the small-scale farmers who comprise the backbone of this sector, this abundance translates directly into devastating financial distress. During the harvest season, the overwhelming glut drives farm-gate prices down dramatically, often plummeting far below the farmers’ cost of production. While the cost to produce a kilogram of potato often reaches Tk 14-17 (including inputs and labor), farmers are frequently compelled to sell their fresh produce at Tk 7 to Tk 15 per kg. By the time cold storage fees and other costs are factored in, farmers and traders can face losses of Tk 10 to Tk 15 per kilogram. This predicament not only discourages cultivation in subsequent seasons but also jeopardizes the stability of the entire supply chain, trapping the sector in a perpetual cycle of boom-and-bust. Link The Processing Paradox: A Failure of Value Addition The reason Bangladesh’s production powerhouse fails to translate into global market dominance boils down to a fundamental failure in value addition. Most global potato trade, especially for high-value products, involves processed forms—French fries, chips, flakes, and starch. In developed economies like Canada, Germany, and Belgium, 70-80% of the potato harvest is diverted to industrial processing. Even neighbouring India processes about 7-10% of its output. By sharp contrast, Bangladesh processes a mere 2% to 4% of its total potato production. The vast majority of the harvest is sold as fresh vegetables, a low-value commodity with limited export lifespan and high storage costs. This processing gap is compounded by issues with potato varieties. The local market preference drives farmers to grow large volumes of round-shaped, high-moisture varieties  that are excellent for fresh consumption but entirely unsuitable for commercial processing. Industrial processing requires potatoes with high dry matter content to yield better output for chips and fries, a characteristic lacking in the dominant local varieties. Without the industrial capacity and the right raw material, Bangladesh cannot tap into the fast-growing global trade of processed potato products, confining its market share to negligible levels. Structural Hurdles and Export Roadblocks Beyond variety and processing, structural issues impede Bangladesh’s effort to become a reliable global supplier. The country’s cold storage infrastructure is both ageing and inadequate, forcing farmers to dump surplus produce prematurely when storage space fills up or when existing stocks begin to deteriorate. The inability to hold quality stock until favorable market conditions arise undermines any strategy for phased export. Link Furthermore, Bangladesh faces challenges in meeting the stringent compliance and phytosanitary requirements of developed markets. Exporting requires strict adherence to Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), rigorous certification, and the capability to supply specific, export-oriented varieties consistently. Past issues, such as the ban on Bangladeshi potatoes by the Russian Federation over quarantine concerns, highlight the need for advanced regulatory laboratories and quality assurance mechanisms. Moreover, exporters cite higher production costs compared to regional competitors like India and Pakistan, making it difficult to compete purely on price in the international arena. A Roadmap for Global Growth and Sustainability The path to increasing the global market share from 0.01% to a more respectable figure is clear, requiring coordinated policy and private-sector investment. Agricultural economists and industry leaders have outlined several critical steps: Promote Export-Oriented Varieties: The government and extension agencies must incentivize farmers to shift a significant portion of their land to high-yield, long-shape, high-dry-matter varieties (such as Santana, Innovator, and Sunshine) specifically desired by the processing and international fresh markets. Invest in Processing and Cold Chain: Massive investment is required to establish modern, automated potato processing plants and technologically advanced cold storage facilities. This will convert the current surplus into high-value, shelf-stable goods, diversifying market risks and adding tremendous value to the crop. Policy and Financial Support: The government must provide targeted policy support, including financial incentives or loans for processing industries, and potentially introduce a Minimum Support Price (MSP) or procurement system to protect farmers during price crashes. Providing subsidized, quality seed for exportable varieties is also crucial. Ensure Compliance: Developing world-class laboratories and training farmers on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and international sanitary standards will open doors to high-value markets in Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. While the current figures are disheartening, the recent surge in fresh potato exports to Nepal, Malaysia, Singapore, and the UAE, leveraging temporary price advantages, proves the potential exists. By strategically addressing the processing gap and infrastructure deficits, Bangladesh can transform its recurring surplus from a farmer’s curse into a national asset, ultimately commanding a market share that truly reflects its immense potato production capacity. The survival of the farmer and the long-term stability of the sector depend on this fundamental market pivot. More About Author Devendra K

बांग्लादेश के पास वैश्विक आलू बाजार का केवल 0.01% हिस्सा क्यों है बांग्लादेश अक्सर दुनिया में आलू का सातवां सबसे बड़ा उत्पादक माना जाता है, जिसकी उत्पादन मात्रा अक्सर वार्षिक 11 मिलियन टन से अधिक होती है। फिर भी, यह असाधारण सफलता आर्थिक उलझन को छुपाती है: इस देश की अंतरराष्ट्रीय मंच पर उपस्थिति लगभग अदृश्य है। अपने विशाल फसल के बावजूद, बांग्लादेश विश्व के 120 बिलियन डॉलर के आलू बाजार का हिस्सा केवल 0.01% से कम है। घरेलू उत्पादन की ये विशालता और वैश्विक बाजार में पहुंच के बीच यह चौंकाने वाला असंतुलन बार-बार होने वाले कृषि संकट का मुख्य कारण है, जो लगभग हर मौसम में किसानों को बड़े नुकसान से जूझने पर मजबूर करता है। समस्या का मुख्य कारण एक स्थायी "पर्याप्तता का संकट" है। वार्षिक उत्पादन आंकड़े लगातार 11 मिलियन टन के पार जाते हैं और घरेलू उपभोग लगभग 8 से 9 मिलियन टन के आसपास है, जिससे देश के पास हर साल 2.5 मिलियन से 4 मिलियन टन तक का अधिशेष हो जाता है। इस क्षेत्र की रीढ़ के छोटे किसान के लिए, यह प्रचुरता सीधे विनाशकारी वित्तीय संकट में बदल जाती है। फसल कटाई के मौसम में, अत्यधिक अध...
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