New labels approved for effective long-term storage
- August/September 2008 Read?
Step change in storage for sprout control (article)
- August 2008 Read?
UPL acquires UK CIPC distribution from Whytes
- June 2008 Read?
2008 Storage Update
Secure higher crop values, store with extra care
- January 2008 Read?
Pro-Potato guidelines updated
- August 2006 Read?
Pro-Long launched for long-term storage
- November 2005 Read?
Potato applicators secure quality accreditation
- April 2004 Read?
EU review success secures Aceto's CIPC
- December 2003 Read?
Growers alerted to ‘warm’ storage threat
- October 2003 Read?
Solvent-free CIPC briquette launched by Aceto
- August 2003 Read?
Launch of the Pro-Potato programme
- August 2003 Read?
Reliance on field treatments risks sprouting damage
- June 2003 Read?
Critical time to protect value of stored crop
- November 2002 Read?
CIPC celebrates new age in store
- October 2002 Read?
New CIPC label approved for effective long-term storage
New labels for CIPC sprout-suppressants including Pro-Long and SproutNip products have been approved to create important new flexibility for growers storing crops long-term for processing.
For full details and downloads of the new labels, click here.
The Pesticides Safety Directorate gave approval to Whyte Agrochemicals to create the first UK labels which allow higher and lower dosage regimes. Recommended rates per treatment are 8 grams (minimum) to 21 grams per tonne with no limit on the number of treatments up to a total maximum of 63.75 grams per tonne.
The interval between treatments is not restricted and the withholding period after treatment has been reduced to two days.
The label recommendation also confirms that if the total dose of CIPC applied is greater than 36 grams per tonne, the potatoes may only be used for processing.
“The new label gives UK growers the flexibility they need to manage their treatment programmes efficiently for long term storage,” said Mick Bridge of Whyte. “We strongly advise growers to apply the an initial treatment as soon as the potatoes are cured in the first 10 – 14 days. Crops treated early in this way will be more easily controlled later in the season and the threat of outbreaks of sprouting is much reduced.”
Whyte’s and their CIPC supplier Aceto have worked closely with the CIPC Stewardship Group formed in 2007 to develop ‘best-practice recommendations for the responsible and effective use of CIPC and are supporting a number of new initiatives to improve the monitoring and management of CIPC treatments.
For full details of the new labels, click here.
Step change in storage for sprout control
A new framework for potato storage is creating a step change in CIPC treatment for sprout suppression. New initiatives abound, new recommendations have been written and greater scrutiny is assured as growers seek to protect the value of their crops in the 2008/9 season.
Last year, regulators highlighted concerns about the possible occurrence of higher residues of CIPC and issues arose over the flexibility of its continued effective use. A concerted effort by stakeholders has secured the future of CIPC and its vital role in sprout suppression – but only under new criteria that will require behavioural changes in the UK industry.
Those criteria were published in the middle of the 2007/8 storage season so their impact will only really be felt now as store managers plan their activities for the coming season.
In a co-ordinated response, the whole industry has acted together to agree an integrated plan that creates a ‘momentum for improvement’ in the use of CIPC.
“The new framework will ensure growers achieve better standards, improve efficiency and save money,” says Mick Bridge of UK CIPC distributor Whyte (now part of UPL). ‘CIPC is higher up the agenda for regulators, growers and for processors and everyone wants to see storage managed in a responsible, pro-active way so there’s no uncertainty about the industry’s ability to optimise sprout suppression.”
The new regulation of CIPC dosage results from the Advisory Committee on Pesticides (ACP) decision on submissions from PSD and industry stakeholders, including potato processors and CIPC approval holders. It requires that if the total dose of CIPC applied is greater than 36 g per tonne , then the potatoes may only be used for processing. The maximum dose for potatoes destined for commercial processing remains at 63.75g per tonne.
The first new labels with a recommended maximum dose of 63.75g rate have just been approved in August by PSD for Whyte’s Pro-long and Sprout-Nip products and finally gives growers the flexibility needed for long-term storage.
“With this new flexibility comes new responsibilities. The emphasis is on early planning” says CIPC specialist Grace Gillard for world leading CIPC supplier Aceto. “Rather than simply reacting to sprouting, the new protocols will require a much greater degree of pro-activity to optimise storage techniques”
The PSD will be monitoring the industry’s performance closely to ensure safety concerns have been taken seriously and the potato storage industry has risen to the challenge with a highly coordinated response that provides for a true opportunity for extra safety, security and quality in stored crops.
The momentum for change is driven by the CIPC Stewardship Group, established at the end of 2007 and comprising representatives from the Potato Council, the Potato Processors’ Association, packers, Assured Produce, researchers, application companies and CIPC suppliers.
This Stewardship Group’s initiatives include:
- A commitment to implementing best practice, monitoring performance and researching better methodologies
- Updated training for growers with the PA9 module of the National Proficiency Training Council (NPTC) for fog application.
- The publication of specialised CIPC storage guides by the Potato Council and a detailed update of its Store Managers’ Guide
- Greater attention to crop monitoring in store
- Annual checking and certification of application equipment by the National Sprayer Testing Scheme (NSTS)
- The promotion of better circulation technology to reduce CIPC dosage rates through improved distribution
The new labels, approved last month by PSD for Whyte’s Pro-Long and related products make an important contribution to storage management with CIPC with recommended rates between 8 and 21 grams per tonne per treatment. They also have no specified intervals between treatments and a shorter withholding period of just two days.
“Rather than wait the usual six weeks or so, CIPC treatment should be done as soon as the potatoes are cured, which should occur within 10 – 14 days and this will ensure serious problems can be avoided later,” says Mick Bridge. “The sooner you treat the crop, the better control you get throughout the storage period giving much greater confidence in the protection of crop quality and value.
Subsequent CIPC treatments can then be managed at the minimum levels to maintain control – the 63.75 g per tonne limit allows maximum flexibility with several treatments overall within a recommendation that none of them is less than 8 g per tonne. Potato varieties, dormancy and temperature will influence these treatments patterns together with the anticipated duration of storage overall.
Overall, the best-practice protocols include: removing as much soil as possible before storage, managing condensation carefully and applying CIPC before signs of sprouting. In the longer term, the sub-division of stores into units small enough to fill quickly is also recommended to ensure a more homogenous crop and storage environment. But, above all, early planning is emphasised in consultation with the processors regarding varieties treatment plans and crop delivery.
The Potato Council has issued a CIPC Application Checklist as one of the initiatives under the Stewardship Plan which growers should complete to monitor and measure their dosages in a structured way.
Alongside the checklist, the PC has also distributed a specialised publication ‘Improving the use of CIPC in bulk stores’ as well as updating their highly regarded ‘Store Managers’ Guide’.
A key recommendation that is being increasingly promoted is the use of variable frequency drive (VFD) controlled fans for air circulation which have been shown to dramatically improve the effectiveness and enable the responsible management of CIPC treatment – see below. This technology is likely to become part of ‘best-practice’ recommendations in the near future.
Slower fans make quick improvements
Research by Sutton Bridge Experimental Unit and Glasgow University has used fans fitted with a variable frequency drive (VFD), as used in North America, to apply CIPC. The work, funded by the Potato Council, has demonstrated that 15 g to 42 g per tonne of product can protect the crop in bulk stores from September to June in optimum conditions.
UK stores have typically relied on CIPC fogging without any air circulation during application. However lower speed VFD systems can operate during treatment and can be highly effective in ensuring an even distribution of CIPC – providing that time is spent prior to application to balance the system air flow. Ordinary fans cannot be used as the blade speed is too high creating uneven deposits – and often excess deposition of CIPC on the fans themselves.
An additional benefit is the speed of treatment with tests demonstrating that CIPC can be fully deposited on the crop within three hours using low speed fans while a conventional fogging approach may required twice that time.
During storage, VFD-controlled fans can also help manage energy use .
UPL acquires UK CIPC distribution from Whytes
June 2008
UK distribution of Aceto's sprout suppressant chlorpropham (CIPC) will be handled by United Phosphorous Ltd (UPL) following their acquisition of the CIPC business from Whyte Agrochemicals.
The products, primarily for use with stored potatoes, are formulated and distributed under the brand names PRO-LONG, MSS CIPC 50M and the MSS Sprout Nip briquette and use the active ingredient of CIPC global market leader Aceto Agrochemicals Corporation of the US.
Aceto’s Mike Feinman commented: "We will now work closely with UPL to make sure CIPC distribution will continue as it always has. Aceto is fully committed to the long-term use and development of CIPC across Europe and has invested in the successful support of the product
with EU regulatory authorities. We will be concentrating on product stewardship for CIPC in the UK this year and on other new initiatives."
UPL is a leading global producer of crop protection products with offices in 16 countries and a UK base and production facilities in Cheshire. Jerry Bloomfield and Mick Bridge, who worked at Whytes in the marketing, sales and support of CIPC, will continue in this role at UPL.
The current Pro-Potato registered applicators for the product remain the same in the UK.
2008 STORAGE UPDATE
January 2008
Secure higher crop value, store with extra care
Potato shortages in 2008 are set to increase the value of stored crop - and intensify pressure to manage stores for optimum performance.
Although crop yields last season were only 1% down on 2006, the casualty of the summer’s weather is wastage. The very heavy rain resulted in a lot of greening and growth cracks due to the stop/start nature of the early growing conditions. As a result, wastage rates at first grading were seen to be four times higher than last year with processors and packers expecting to see further problems later.
Best practice storage is more important than ever to protect the higher value of the crops in this demanding environment.
Blight and disease are at lower levels than anticipated but sprouting remains a constant threat, rendering stored crop worthless for processing. Demand for applications of Whytes Pro-long (CIPC) has been high with two applications in many stores before Christmas.
CIPC (Chlorpropham) has received European Annex 1 clearance under Directive EC/91/414 and, as part of that process, a Maximum Residue Level (MRL) of 10 mg/kg was set, which came into force in April 2007.
It is very important that growers take care to ensure that their stores are set up well and that the air circulation and ventilation systems are constantly monitored so that CIPC is distributed evenly throughout the store. The CIPC products are best applied by professional applicators and then there should not be a problem with high residue levels when the potatoes go into the supply chain.
Constant vigilance recommended
- Check stores very regularly for any signs of initial sprouting
- Timely applications are essential for maximum efficacy
- Protracted store loading after last year’s harvest may cause uneven sprouting so extra vigilence is required
- Keep in contact with your CIPC applicator.
- The current conditions mean that their capacity may be limited so keep in touch to ensure you can get a good service when you need it
- Avoid under-dosing or long intervals between applications
- The effects of early sprouting control from in-field treatments of maleic hydrazide may have been reduced this season
- Pay special attention to temperature and ventilation issues in order to ensure even distribution of CIPC
PRO-POTATO GUIDELINES UPDATED
Press release - August 2006
August 2006
'Best-practice' storage guide updated
Important updates have been announced to the industry's 'best-practice' storage advice for potatoes for the processing industry.
The potato industry is a leading food sector for self-monitoring and collaboration and the strength of the cross-industry Pro-Potato initiative has been valuable in encouraging 'best-practice'.
New guidelines in the Pro-Potato Guide focus on store segregation, the use of CIPC fogging equipment and building design after consultation with the British Potato Council, Assured Produce and the Potato Processors Association.
Store segregation
Greater emphasis is being placed on the sub-division or segregation of stores.
Stores which have been divided into sections of no more than 1000 tonnes have shown positive results. Typically, stores of this size can be filled within a week and emptied partially to meet processors' demands. Smaller stores or store sections also enable CIPC treatment to be more closely managed. Air handling and efficient circulation is also easier.
"The use of larger stores can result in less precise treatment and this is no longer acceptable in an industry that has to protect its environmental reputation," says Adrian Briddon of the British Potato Council. "Targeted, specific treatment is standard in the field and the same discipline should apply to the store."
The segregation of tuber varieties is also part of this equation to avoid the dosing of dormant crop just because it is stored alongside an earlier-breaking variety.
Maintenance of fogging equipment
Pressure is increasing on potato stores to use professional applicators for CIPC treatment unless their operators are fully trained and fogging equipment is properly calibrated and tested. Both the industry standards organisation Assured Produce and the Potato Processors Association have called for more robust management in this area.
"Growers are exposed to greater scrutiny than ever with the processors and regulators insisting on the highest standards," says Jerry Bloomfield of Whyte Agrochemicals, who sponsor the Pro-Potato scheme with CIPC supplier Aceto.
"We use experienced contractors, who have refined their own machines for fogging applications. This avoids errors and the variable results which often occur when people make their own applications," he says.
The scrutiny is on smaller-scale machines which can only produce even, effective results if properly maintained. Industry advisors say that most machines fall below standard. Assured Produce's position is that store managers must be able to produce documentary evidence that foggers have been regularly calibrated. Audits of their performance are likely to become an industry requirement.
The Pro-Potato scheme strongly recommends the use of professional applicators with dedicated CIPC fogging equipment which is routinely calibrated and monitored. This equipment delivers more even treatment and the faster application means stores are shut for less time - lessening the risk of affecting tuber sugar content which can compromise fry quality. The Food and Environment Protection Act 1985 also requires that CIPC application must be carried out only by suitably trained personnel with PA1 and PA9 certification from the National Proficiency Test Council.
Vacuum effects in high wind
There is increasing awareness of the importance of vacuum effects in high winds on potato stores. Recent studies reveal significant disparities between treatments on calm and windy days with potential impact on treatment effectiveness.
Vacuum effects in a poorly maintained store can ventilate a store during treatment, giving the possibility of risking the crop due to under-dosing as well as the waste and environmental impact of lost treatment fog.
It is recommended therefore that CIPC treatments should not be done in very windy conditions.
.
Pro-Potato scheme
The Pro-Potato storage guide is published as part of the Pro-Potato scheme, an initiative launched in 2004 by Whytes working with global CIPC supplier Aceto, to encourage the highest standards in the longer-term storage of potatoes. Industry leaders and processors have supported enthusiastically the Pro-Potato objectives.
The guide covers store design and maintenance, optimum storage conditions and crop monitoring. A new section covers Health & Safety at Work regulations and reflects recent new guidelines from the British Potato Council.
The use of CIPC for sprout suppression is covered in detail with information on pre-treatment issues, dosing techniques, recording and traceability. A 'trouble-shooter' section gives store managers useful tips to anticipate and avoid problems.
The best qualified and most reliable CIPC applicators are selected to operate under the Prop-Potato banner.
PRO-LONG
PROfessional LONG term storage with CIPC
PRO-LONG is the latest CIPC sprout suppressant from Whyte Agrochemicals specially designed to protect crops in long-term storage for processing.
Whyte Agrochemicals have launched PRO-LONG as the modern CIPC label for sprout suppression in potatoes stored long-term for processing.
- Effective protection from sprouting for up to 10 months
- The PRO-LONG treatment programme meets latest EU criteria for MRL (Maximum Residue Level)
- ‘Best practice ’ label recommendations for treatment and storage
- Proven in commercial-scale (up to 10,000-tonne)store trials
- Fully supported by an extensive development data package
Press release - November 2005
PRO-LONG sprout suppressant launched
A newly branded CIPC-based sprout suppressant which meets the latest environmental requirements for long-term potato storage has been announced by Whyte Agrochemicals under the name 'PRO-LONG'.
PRO-LONG secures stored crops against sprouting for up to 10 months from harvest and the product instructions have been written in the light of European Union regulations finalised in July 2005 and recognise recent recommendations in best-practice.
'PRO-LONG is the modern, reliable product to preserve the quality the processors are looking for in potatoes stored for several months', said Jerry Bloomfield, Whyte Agrochemicals Manager.
'The PRO-LONG label has been designed to meet the latest EU criteria for maximum residue levels and we have sought to reflect best-practice techniques in setting out the treatment regime for PRO-LONG,' he said. 'It is backed up by one of the most extensive development data packages.'
Describing PRO-LONG as their up-to-date label for long-term potato storage, Whytes have assessed the latest requirements of UK processors and new protocols from Assured Produce, the trade standards body which advises on safe use of pesticides in food production.
PRO-LONG has been proven in several commercial-scale store trials in facilities of up to 10,000 tonnes.
Working with global CIPC supplier Aceto, Whytes are promoting PRO-LONG in association with the Pro-Potato campaign - a scheme which encourages the use of professional application contractors and optimal storage conditions.
The move is a response to increasing pressure from the large processors to ensure traceability in treatment programmes and uniform standards of application.
Read the label before you buy. Use pesticides safely. CIPC is Chlorpropham.
April 2004
Potato applicators secure quality accreditation
The Pro-Potato quality programme launched last year to support best practice in Chlorpropham (CIPC) treatment is to be developed as an accreditation scheme for applicators.
Pressure to protect crop value while maintaining high standards for the responsible use of CIPC treatment have prompted the move towards a formal system of approval for applicators. CIPC is used for the sprout suppression of potatoes in store.
The scheme has been welcomed by processors and by Assured Produce who have been keen to promote the use of professional application and certified systems to measure and monitor the treatment of crops in store.
‘There is no longer any scope for an informal or unprofessional approach to CIPC treatment,” says Jerry Bloomfield, head of the UK’s leading CIPC supplier, Whyte Agrochemicals Limited. ‘CIPC is essential to long-term potato storage but its effectiveness must not be compromised by inadequate application techniques or poor storage conditions.’
The sponsors of the scheme - Aceto Agricultural Chemicals Corporation and Whyte Agrochemicals Limited – have been examining the credentials of applicators and five leading contractors have now been accredited to Pro-Potato – Superfog Limited, Stored Crop Conservation Limited, Potato Storage Treatments Limited, T&S Services (Doddington) and P.S.G.S. (Dudwick Farms).
Professor Chris Payne, Chairman of Assured Produce commented: ‘We have recommended protocols that ensure a safe and responsible approach to CIPC treatment. The Pro-Potato scheme is designed to give growers a reliable guide as to which contractors are sufficiently qualified and competent to do the job properly.’
The main credentials for PRO-POTATO applicators include: proven expertise in the reliable application of CIPC; ‘best practice’ procedures for store inspection and crop treatment; the use of qualified personnel; full traceability documentation and accreditation to a national quality system – preferably ISO 9001. The applicators will be expected to be fully insured and members of an appropriate professional body.
The programme is being implemented through Aceto’s distributors across Europe and the best qualified and most reliable applicators will be encouraged to operate under the PRO-POTATO banner.
8 December 2003
EU review success secures Aceto’s CIPC
Aceto’s CIPC (Chlorpropham) has secured its future with a successful conclusion of the European Union (EU) pesticides review. The European Commission has advised that CIPC will be placed on the ‘Annex 1’ list of approved pesticides.
The approval follows a programme of extensive support and investment by Aceto Agricultural Chemicals Corporation to champion the ongoing use of CIPC as the potato industry’s leading sprout suppressant.
“In securing a place on the ‘Annex 1’ list, CIPC has met the demanding standards of the European Regulators with a robust and modern data package,” said Pamela Foster, European regulatory consultant to Aceto.
“CIPC is a well established, proven active substance and now the product has been examined by most of the world’s major regulatory authorities, the parameters for its long-term use are agreed. This is a sound position to build on,” she said.
Aceto, the world leader in CIPC, is now progressing an ambitious programme of development for the product which includes new formulations and the ‘Pro-Potato’ quality accreditation scheme to ensure best practice in the application of CIPC.
“We are very positive about the future of CIPC,” said Mike Feinman of Aceto. “The growers and processors have got the signal they needed from the EU for a long-term commitment to CIPC as the safe, effective sprout suppressant for potatoes.”
Under the European Council Directive 91/414 governing the marketing and authorisation of plant protection products in Member States of the EU, all existing active substances are being reviewed to ensure that their continued use is consistent with modern user, consumer and environmental safety standards.
Aceto Agricultural Chemicals Corporation supported CIPC in the review with extensive new data covering physical/chemical properties, mammalian toxicity, animal and plant metabolism, residues, environmental fate and behaviour and ecotoxicity studies.
Aceto sells CIPC through European partners (who market the end-use formulations) including Agrichem BV, Chimac Agriphar SA, Frowein GmbH & Co KG and Whyte Agrochemicals Limited.
Further details of CIPC, its marketing companies and the Pro-Potato scheme are available at www.pro-potato.com
TOP
October 2003
Pro-potato alerts growers to ‘warm’ storage threat
After one of the hottest growing and harvesting seasons on record, growers have been alerted to the extra threat to stored crops with an online ‘action list’ to combat anticipated problems.
Key processors have posted a checklist on the pro-potato.com website to ensure store managers are aware of the risks which include increased chance of condensation, sprouting and greater vulnerability to bruising.
“The effect of hot field conditions during the potato season this year are going to put extra pressure on store managers to maintain the quality we need,” said Richard Harris of the Potato Processors Association.
“Dormancy is likely to break earlier, prompting the onset of sprouting, and we have concerns about certain varieties regarding earlier senescent sweetening which may compromise fry quality – especially with Pentland Dell,” he said.
Exceptional levels of dry matter in tubers is the other key risk this year. This will make bruising much more likely and may expose the crop to additional disease risk. The greater use of the hot box is highly recommended to check as many loads as possible – especially first loads from any particular field and those after any change in harvest conditions.
“Vigilance is the key word for the 2003 storage season,” said Jerry Bloomfield of Whyte Agrochemicals Limited, the leading UK supplier of CIPC sprout suppression products. “We are advising growers to visit the checklist on the website to protect themselves from the threat. Sprouting could occur up to two weeks earlier than usual.” he said.
The pro-potato.com website was launched at the British Potato 2003 event in Newark in September after cooperation between processors and CIPC suppliers Aceto Agricultural Chemicals Corporation and Whyte Agrochemicals Limited.
The ‘best practice’ guidelines for growers on pro-potato.com give detailed advice on optimum storage conditions and effective temperature management techniques.
Pro-potato is part of a new quality programme designed to help growers achieve the optimum condition expected of stored crops by the processing industry. The importance of reliable, effective CIPC (Chlorpropham) treatment for sprout suppression during long-term storage has prompted the move.
Processors are emphasising the increased importance of working with only the most experienced, professional CIPC applicators this year and within the Assured Produce guidelines that ensure high standards and full traceability in crop treatment.
The pro-potato programme is being implemented through Aceto’s distributors across Europe and the best qualified and most reliable applicators will be encouraged to operate under the pro-potato banner.
TOP
18 August 2003
New CIPC formulation launched for low-stress fogging
A solvent-free formulation of chlorpropham (CIPC) has been launched in the UK in the form of solid briquettes to provide a fast, effective new treatment method for sprout suppression in stored potatoes.
The product from Aceto Agricultural Chemicals Corporation, world leaders in CIPC, will be manufactured and distributed in the UK by Whyte Agrochemicals Ltd.
The briquette can be used to apply treatments more quickly so that crop stress is minimized and crop condition is preserved for optimum fry colour. The absence of flammable solvent improves product safety, handling, storage, transport and packaging disposal.
Jerry Bloomfield of Whytes said: “This is a major product improvement for CIPC. Aceto has invested in a programme of strong support for CIPC in both the existing formulation and the new product which is very positive for growers of higher value crops for processing.”
The solid form has undergone extensive large-scale commercial trials in the UK and has a proven track record in the United States where it accounted for about 90% of the market within three years of its introduction. This shift is expected to be reflected in European markets in the long term.
The solid form of CIPC requires specialised fogging equipment and, initially, two UK applicators have designed new systems and trained operators to use the briquette product. Only professional contractors will be able to apply CIPC briquettes.
Superfog Ltd and Stored Crop Conservation Ltd are the UK contractors who will introduce the new method in the forthcoming storage season. The briquette is also being registered this year in key European markets.
[ends]
18 August 2003
Quality programme launched for long-term potato storage
A major international initiative to protect the value of stored potatoes will be launched by Aceto Agricultural Chemicals Corporation and Whyte Agrochemicals Limited at the British Potato 2003 event in Newark in September.
PRO-POTATO is a new quality programme designed to help growers achieve the optimum condition expected of stored crops by the processing industry. The importance of reliable, effective CIPC (Chlorpropham) treatment for sprout suppression during long-term storage has prompted the move.
The programme has been created by Aceto and Whyte Agrochemicals, working with leading UK processors. It will be implemented through Aceto’s distributors across Europe and the best qualified and most reliable applicators will be encouraged to operate under the PRO-POTATO banner.
“The demands of potato processors are now such that growers can rely only on the most professional operators to secure the value of their crop”, said Mike Feinman, head of agricultural chemicals at Aceto, world leaders in CIPC.
“PRO-POTATO will help growers identify existing ‘best-practice’ applicators and will motivate other operators to improve their performance. There will not be any scope for cowboys’” he said.
The main credentials for PRO-POTATO applicators include: proven expertise in the reliable application of CIPC; ‘best practice’ procedures for store inspection and crop treatment; the use of qualified personnel; and the traceability of documentation. The applicators will be expected to be fully insured and members of an appropriate professional body.
A set of guidelines for growers is being made available by Acteto and Whytes and is also available at www.pro-potato.com
The initiative reinforces the protocols published by the Assured Produce group which strongly recommends the use of professional contractors for CIPC application.
The scheme is voluntary but will allow the best applicators to be identified easily by growers. Ultimately a more formal approval scheme may be introduced to enable applicators to qualify for PRO-POTATO accreditation.
[ends]
11 June 2003
Reliance on field treatments risks sprouting damage
Growers risk compromising the value of stored crops if too much reliance is placed on field treatments for sprout suppression, industry leaders have warned.
Field application of maleic hydrazide is effective for the control of potato volunteers but its contribution to sprout suppression is uncertain, uneven and varies considerably with field conditions during treatment, warns the UK’s major sprout suppression distributors Whytes Agrochemicals Ltd.
Early treatment with CIPC (Chlorpropham) is essential within two to three weeks of crops going into store to achieve reliable long-term storage of process-quality potatoes.
“We are aware of concern among processors that some growers assume field treatments will protect the crop from sprouting for lengthy periods in store”, said Jerry Bloomfield of Whytes. “We have been asked to rescue badly sprouted crops at Christmas with CIPC and it cannot be done!”
“Once the initiation of sprouting is apparent, long-term storage is endangered and the value of the crop is compromised for processing,” he added. “Growers cannot predict this point-of-no-return – the only secure method is to treat the stored crop early - as soon as the potato skin is cured – and continue a treatment programme thereafter to maintain sprout control, within the conditions of the CIPC label.”
Working with Aceto Agricultural Chemicals Corporation USA, the global supplier of CIPC, Whytes are providing additional information to support their MSS CIPC 50M product range this season after detailed discussions with potato processing companies.
Processors are keen to ensure the maximum reliability of pre-agreed delivery schedules with growers and regard correct CIPC treatment regimes as an essential component of this reliability.
The onset of sprouting causes weight loss and disturbs the sugar balance of the tubers - a critical factor in determining the correct fry colour that the processors must achieve.
“Pre-harvest is the time to prepare stores and finalise plans for professional applicators to achieve optimum CIPC treatment conditions,” said Mr Bloomfield.
[ends]
7 November 2002 – for immediate release
Critical time to protect value of stored potatoes
Growers have been alerted to the need for strict management and frequent monitoring of stored potatoes as quality demands intensify from potato processors, supermarkets and other major buyers.
For the application of sprout suppressants on stored crops, growers are being required to comply with new standards from Assured Produce for treatment with CIPC.
“A reliable acceptance of the crop for processing and fresh sales is more essential than ever”, said Mike Feinman, head of agricultural chemicals at Aceto, the world leading suppliers of sprout suppressant CIPC (Chlorpropham). “Now the crops are in store, growers need to monitor on a very frequent basis.and implement a pro-active treatment plan based on prevention,” he says.
Field treatment with Maleic Hydrazide may have helped to suppress sprouting during the curing period but it is essential that potatoes are treated with CIPC before the onset of sprouting. Optimum timing for CIPC is vital to maintain quality and protect the crop’s value.
The first application of CIPC is recommended once the potatoes are cured and before any sprouting occurs. From then on the stored potatoes must be carefully inspected every few days and CIPC applied at 40 to 60 day intervals when there is evidence of sprouting starting to occur.
Aceto have also warned against under-dosing with CIPC or unduly long intervals that risk internal sprouting - making the potatoes unusable for chips and crisps.
The need to achieve safe, even and effective application of CIPC has been recognized by Assured Produce and new guidelines for producers have been included in their 2002 potato protocol.
Aceto has fully supported the drive by Assured Produce (AP) towards the increased use of contractors to ensure best practice in CIPC application.
AP strongly recommends that all CIPC fogging applications are to be undertaken by specialist, insured operators who are members of an appropriate professional body and accredited to ISO 9002. A fully traceable, audited and professional record-keeping system should be in place and AP intend to review the systems operated by contractors with a view to tightening the standards.
Aceto have suggested that growers work more closely with both contractors and processors to ensure optimum growing, storage and treatment conditions are achieved. A strict regime for testing the condition of the growing crop and, subsequently, the stored tubers is essential.
The company has also indicated that new label requirements for this season (on White’s MSS 50M label) allow flushing out the store with a short period of ambient ventilation when the CIPC fog has settled - but this must be done remotely - do not enter the store until 24 hours after application have elapsed unless wearing the recommended protective clothing.
A programme has been launched by Aceto to support CIPC distributors including Whyte’s in the UK, Chimac Agriphar in Belgium, Agrichem in The Netherlands and Frowein in Germany with a package of comprehensive information about best practice in potato crop protection.
CIPC celebrates the 50th anniversary of its first patent in 2003. In the same year, the product is scheduled to complete its review within the European Union. “Chlorpropham will emerge from the review process with a robust and modern data package,” says Pam Foster, who has overseen the support of CIPC in the review. “A successful conclusion of the EU review will mean that chlorpropham will have been reviewed by most of the world’s major regulatory authorities and the parameters of its use will have been agreed,” she said.
[ends]
CIPC celebrates new age in store
Next year is highly significant for the market-leading sprout suppressant as processors increase their demands for quality, longer-term storage
2003 is set to be the year of potato storage! A coincidence of issues will mark the year and maybe the most important milestone will be that consumption of processed potatoes will exceed those eaten fresh for the first time in the UK.
The resulting demands of high fry quality and longer-term storage will throw the spotlight on sprout suppressants. CIPC (Chlorpropham) is set to rise to the occasion. The product marks 50 years since its patent but will be anticipating its new future as the all-important EU review of established pesticides including CIPC is concluded in the Summer of 2003.
CIPC market leader Aceto said last month: “Everything is coming together to take potato storage technology into a more secure future.” Mike Feinman, Aceto’s President of the agricultural business, added: “ The aim is to ensure high quality is more achievable and therefore that growers are better rewarded by a reliable acceptance of their crop with a guaranteed route to processing.”
This position is further reinforced with the latest proposals from Assured Produce to define a set of CIPC application guidelines for producers in their 2002 potato protocol. This will specify how CIPC can be applied satisfactorily to meet the processors and other market requirements.
The processing milestone has surprised industry analysts with its speed. Just a decade ago, the market for chips, crisps and other processed potato products took only 20% of the crop. In 2002, the British Potato Council reported that the 50% threshold was almost reached. “Potato consumption is fairly stable at 110kg per person on average a year but the rate of processed product has accelerated and is set to overtake the fresh supply.”
The UK trend was forewarned, of course, by experience in the USA where the processed sales split exceeded 50% 10 years ago. Key processors have major plans for expansion in the UK is 2003 for both frozen and chilled potato products and crisps.
The emphasis on processing means producers must focus on providing crop of the right quality. Storage is the critical issue as processors demand that quality right through from the Autumn harvest to June or even July the following year.
At its 50th anniversary, CIPC remains the dominant control product for sprout suppression and application technology has ensured continuous improvement in its performance. But a successful conclusion to the EU review is a key part of its future.
Aceto is the leading global supplier of CIPC (Chlorpropham) and has been supporting the product in the EU review. Pamela Foster is overseeing the EU review on behalf of the notifier, Aceto Agricultural Chemicals Inc. She comments: “A successful outcome to the EU review is of course critical to the continued use of the product and in recognising this and as part of their strategy on product stewardship Aceto have invested a considerable amount of money to meet all the European data demands. Chlorpropham will emerge from the review process with a robust and modern data package.”
“At the conclusion of the EU review, chlorpropham will have been reviewed by most of the worlds major regulatory authorities and the parameters of its use with known quantifiable risks will have been agreed,” added Ms Foster.
After the review, attention will turn to the ongoing use of CIPC. Aceto are working with their partners across Europe to support local growers, including Whyte’s in the UK, Chimac Agriphar in Belgium, Agrichem in The Netherlands and Frowein in Germany.
Processors are looking to smooth their production schedules across the longest possible period. They require potatoes to be delivered just when they want them in ideal processing condition - as much as ten months after harvest.
These timescales mean the scope of sprout suppression and the role of store management generally has changed. Refrigeration is becoming increasingly important as storage seasons are extended.
Field treatment with Maleic Hydrazide - marketed by several suppliers - is recommended for application around a month before burning off the crop to control ground keepers.
Maleic Hydrazide treatment may help to suppress sprouting during the curing period and allow some flexibility on timing. However, it is essential that potatoes are treated with CIPC before the onset of sprouting. Optimum timing for CIPC is vital to maintain quality and protect the crop’s value.
The first application of CIPC is recommended once the potatoes are cured and before any sprouting occurs. From then on the stored potatoes must be carefully inspected weekly and CIPC applied at 40 to 60 day intervals when there is evidence of sprouting staring to occur.
Adrian Briddon of the British Potato Council says: “CIPC will control sprout growth once this is underway, but much higher rates of application will be needed. This approach is not compatible with sound economics, production protocols and anticipated future legislation on residues.”
Successful storage with CIPC
The need to achieve even and effective application of CIPC has been recognized by Assured Produce and new guidelines for producers have been included in the 2002 potato protocol. These guidelines strongly recommend:
Operators - All CIPC fogging applications are to be undertaken by specialist, insured operators who are members of an appropriate professional body and accredited to ISO 9002;
Certification - Operators must be trained and certified to PA1 and PA9 qualifications;
Particle size - The application equipment must be able to deliver ‘fog’ of the appropriate particle size;
Formulation - Only approved formulations of CIPC are to be used;
Read the label - Statutory label instructions and harvest intervals must be adhered to
Temperature - Even store/crop temperatures will aid even application of CIPC
Safety - Full safety equipment should be on hand during CIPC application
The Assured Produce Board supports the principle that contractors should have a fully traceable, audited and professional record-keeping system in place and intends to review the systems operated by contractors with a view to tightening the Standards. In particular, it will be giving further detailed consideration to whether ISO 9002 should be an absolute requirement.
Aceto strongly support the Guidelines to help guarantee that a crop’s route to the processor is as reliable as possible. Contract operators are more likely to apply treatment evenly and can advise on optimum conditions, formulation type and techniques for individual store architecture.
Aceto emphasizes that users must read the label on the product and has also highlighted the following points:
Clean crop -Loose soil will impede the movement of CIPC fog and its attachment to the target. Soil acts as a physical barrier to fog and may chemically bind-up CIPC;
Uniform ventilation - Ensure CIPC fog can disperse uniformly in store. Gentle re-circulation immediately after treatment can be beneficial;
Flushing-out stores - Effects on processing quality can be minimized by flushing-out the store with a short period of ambient ventilation when the CIPC fog has settled - but this must be done remotely - do not enter the store until 24 hours after application have elapsed unless wearing the recommended protective clothing (this is a new recommendation for this season on Whytes MSS 50M label);
Under dosing - Under-dosing or unduly long intervals can force sprouts back into tuber making the potatoes unsaleable for chips and crisps (applications every 40 - 60 days are typical)
Working with processors
Increasing importance is being placed on the relationship between growers and processors.
The processors recognise that they can influence the quality and reliability of their raw material by working with growers throughout the cycle. They can help growers with in-field testing and with storage issues – and move quickly if a crop needs to be pulled out of store quickly for processing before disease or sweetening takes hold.
Processors who are turning potatoes into chips, crisps, waffles and other products and focus on their requirements for peeling, minimum frying time and generally a light fry colour. Storage is a critical factor in best achieving the peeling and colour performance.
Good peeling depends on clean skins, uniform shapes, minimum disease and damage levels and firm tubers. Disease control, handling, sprout-suppression and quality of storage are key factors here.
Fry colour is determined largely by sugar content which will vary during the growing and storage cycle according to a number of factors. Short season crops (late planted due to weather for example) are not likely to store well. Harvesting the crop at the right time avoids the risk of immature crops which still contain too much sugar and result in a rapid darkening in fry colour during the early storage period.
Once in store, temperature is the most important factor for preserving fry colour. During short & medium term storage low temperature sweetening is the greatest concern – storage should therefore occur around the top end of the optimum temperature range.
Quality should be checked weekly - sugars can be analysed, but an assessment of fry colour is satisfactory as long as this is carried out carefully. A fry colour chart and guide to test frying of potatoes for crisps is available free of charge to BPC levy payers.
EU Review of CIPC and residues
Under the European Council Directive 91/414 governing the marketing and authorisation of plant protection products in Member States of the EU, all existing active substances are being reviewed to ensure that their continued use is consistent with modern user, consumer and environmental safety standards.
Aceto Agricultural Chemicals Corporation are supporting CIPC in the review to demonstrate why the product should be allowed to have a continuing use. To provide the supporting data required, Aceto has conducted extensive mammalian toxicity, metabolism and residue, environmental and ecotoxicity studies to evaluate the risk to the user, consumer of treated produce and the environment.
In addition to the EU Review, these studies have been evaluated by the USA and many European countries prior to the registration of CIPC. The product has recently been reviewed by the WHO (World Health Organisation), JMPR (Joint Meeting on Pesticide Residues) and the US EPA (Environmental Protection Agency).
Where the reviews are complete, it has been concluded that CIPC does not pose a risk to the health of workers and consumers of treated potatoes. The JMPR proposed a maximum residue level (MRL) of 30 ppm for fresh potatoes while the EU review is considering an MRL of 10 ppm.
Processing considerably reduces the CIPC residue and this has been confirmed in analysis of marketed produce (basket surveys). As the table shows, washing, peeling and cooking reduce the levels of residue to 1% of its already-marginal post-storage, treated condition.
The EU review is also considering the use of CIPC in storage on potatoes destined for the fresh market and will set appropriate MRL's alongside those set by the World Health Organisation and the Environmental Protection Agency.
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