Innovation is a must to lift potatoes from the commodity status to adapt in line with changing consumer trends. Long term sustainability comes from the development of convenience and taste benefits.
Solanum have pioneered the development into "Insertion" and have the capability to pack units from 500g and insert an additional item into the units.
Solanum have an extensive ability to apply labels through applicators.
Solanum have an extensive capability to pack a varied assortment of unit sizes from 50g units through to 1 tonne boxes or bags.
Variety Development and R&D
Solanum is always seeking to develop new varieties of potatoes which will increase the yield for the grower and increase the return per acre, whilst maintaining a competitive price for the consumer. We are investing in new varieties which will give both ourselves and our growers a competitive advantage. Solanum's agronomists are working with major plant breeders to achieve this. We are also continuously researching and developing new and better systems of potato handling, such as improved ventilation and refrigeration, sprout control and, importantly, disease protection.
Trials and Evaluation of New Varieties
(Organic and Conventional)
Solanum is constantly researching new varieties. But we will not endorse any new varieties without firstly carrying out proper trials and evaluations. Solanum needs to ensure these crops will provide high yields and top quality, thereby giving ourselves and our growers a competitive advantage.
Research into Disease Resistance
Solanum has an on-going research and development programme into disease protection, which is becoming increasingly more important. Keeping a watch over how produce is grown will become more critical than ever in the future. Solanum agronomists and technologists will be providing support to growers in providing leading advice on crop management. We will ensure our growers remain at the cutting-edge of leading R & D within the potato industry.
Potato Handling and Storage
Retailers and consumers demand top quality produce and that means - fresh. Solanum is constantly researching new and better ways of handling produce which will improve shelf life, reduce product damage and preserve organoleptic properties.
Machine and Packing Development
We are at the forefront of new packaging developments and can offer clients many different options, including the latest modified atmosphere systems. In addition, Solanum is continually striving to research and introduce the latest automation technology into our customers' supply chain.
We have pioneered the development into Insertion and now have the capability to insert an additional item into the potato package.
Varied assortments can be packed quickly in unit sizes from a small 50g bag, up to 1 tonne boxes or bags.
Solanum also have an extensive capability of applying labels through applicators.
Innovation is of paramount importance to us if we are to lift the potato from simple commodity status and adapt it in line with consumer demand.
Customised New Product Development Services
The infrastructure within Solanum and the Produce World Group enables us to offer dedicated new product development resources to existing and new client companies.
From accepting a detailed brief from a client, we undertake preliminary research and discuss the merits of a new product line for its variety, long-term viability and marketing potential.
Sound project management disciplines and procedures are then implemented to offer a speedy and cost-efficient solution to the customer's development goals.
Solanum's R and D experts are constantly looking at consumer trends and the marketing opportunities for our clients.
Latest News
Open Farm Sunday - 1 June 2008
This years event has been described by LEAF as “the best yet!”. Over 400 farmers across the country opened up and early reports indicate that nearly 150,000 members of the public visited a local farm on 1st June. A full report will be issued by LEAF later in the year…but in the meantime here is our very own Produce World report. As proud sponsors of the 2008 Open Farm Sunday event I would like to share with everyone the day’s successes, and give a great BIG thank you to everyone who took part…THANK YOU!.
Produce World acquires Marshalls and Agromark
Produce World Ltd, currently growing and marketing organic and conventional fresh produce, has acquired Marshalls Holdings Ltd, a group of companies that includes Marshall Bros (Butterwick) Ltd and a 76% holding in Agromark SA, in a deal agreed and completed last night.
