Toolbox approach to potato storage suggested

Potato growers and store managers should take a ‘toolbox’ approach to tackling potato storage, according to Sutton Bridge Crop Storage Research head, Adrian Cunnington.

Speaking at the Storage Event, he outlined approaches to maximising quality, minimising risk, optimising control and minimising costs in potato stores.

Crops destined for processing, for example, require a uniform store environment. The aim should be to avoid variation in store conditions, as this encourages sprouting and condensation and affects fry colour.  “Positive delivery of air is fundamental to direct and timely control,” said Mr Cunnington.

Commenting on the need to optimise control of stores, he said temperature control was the most important factor. Store control systems are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with the main change being the capability to vary control with changing storage conditions. “No longer do we have a big fan, in a big store, which we just switch on and off.”