Plastic from GM potatoes underway in Germany

Field trials at the University of Rostock, Germany, are assessing genetically modified potatoes, which can be used to obtain a biodegradable plastic. Scientists at the Berlin-based university have developed a protein called cyanophycin, a biodegradable plastic, from potato tubers and leaves. According to researchers it is possible to produce biodegradable polymers (biopolymers) in plants which [...]

ISU research examines how potatoes produce high-energy storage organs

Understanding how plants produce storage organs that humans use as food would be a valuable tool for science and for a hungry world. Iowa State University researcher David Hannapel, professor in horticulture, thinks he has found a key to figuring out the process. Hannapel studies potatoes and the process that leads to tuber formation. Hannapel [...]

Tri-state breeding program in the US releases new varieties

The University of Idaho in Moscow has released three russet potato varieties that are “definite improvements” over current varieties.
- Classic Russet: a high-yielding, early-maturing russet potato with attractive tubers and outstanding culinary qualities that could replace the Russet Norkotah.
- Alpine Russet: a late-season russet potato that can be successfully processed out of long-term storage, like [...]

New Russet potato variety unveiled in the US

When potato growers line up for their potato bar lunch at the 48th annual Washington State Potato Conference, they will be meeting and eating an old acquaintance with a new name.  The new Classic Russet being topped and served by Commissioners this year was also on the menu at the potato bar in 2006, but [...]

Israeli scientist breeding potato varieties for arid regions in the Middle East

David Levy of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem is breeding potato varieties suitable for semi arid climatic conditions as they exist in several countries in the middle east and elsewhere. He has bred varieties that are better suitable for cultivation at higher temperature. These varieties are already grown on semi-commercial scale in Israel and Europe [...]