The biennial Interpom trade fair, held from November 24 to 26 at the Kortrijk Xpo in Belgium, has become a vital hub for the potato industry. Traditionally associated with enjoying a cold beer and indulging in fries with mayonnaise, this year’s event showcased a significant shift toward cutting-edge innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) and electronics, reflecting the evolving landscape of agricultural technology.
Interpom, which began in 2001 as a modest networking event for the fruit and vegetable sector, has expanded its focus primarily to potato cultivation, processing, and marketing. It now serves as a key meeting point for farmers, contractors, potato processors, traders, machine manufacturers, and packagers from across Europe. The event has gained prominence over the years, particularly since 2010, when potato machinery began to take center stage. Manufacturers now showcase their innovations at Interpom during even-numbered years and at Agritechnica during odd-numbered ones.
This year’s fair featured several notable advancements, including the introduction of the Isobus-planting-tiller combination by Dutch manufacturer Baselier. This model, which has been on the market for twelve years, now offers optional Isobus control, allowing users to adjust settings such as planting distance and depth via a monitor. Although many regions may not see a high demand for this feature, its introduction marks a significant step toward greater precision in potato planting. The XL version displayed at the fair boasts larger wheels and a wider tiller, weighing 4.2 tons when empty and requiring a tractor with at least 250 horsepower to operate effectively. With a starting price of €71,000 for the base model and just over €100,000 for the XL version with Isobus, this machinery reflects a growing trend toward investment in advanced agricultural equipment.
Belgian start-up Croptic also made waves at Interpom with its innovative approach to pest management. By utilizing drones and AI, Croptic enables farmers to convert their conventional field sprayers into spot-sprayers. This technology generates weed maps that target persistent problem weeds, such as yellow nutsedge and thistle, which often evade standard treatments. The integration of DGR (Drone Image Processing) technology allows for high-resolution images with significantly lower data requirements, enhancing efficiency in weed management. Additionally, Croptic’s Y-Virus detection system can differentiate between infected and healthy plants, providing farmers with actionable data to manage disease effectively. The company’s goal is to have this system operational by early 2026, starting with lower-grade seed potato classes.
Another highlight of Interpom was the introduction of the Soiltech sensor by Belgian distributor Verdusense. This innovative device, often referred to as an “electronic potato,” measures various parameters throughout the potato cultivation and storage process. From soil temperature and moisture during planting to CO2 levels in storage, the sensor transmits data wirelessly to computers or smartphones, providing farmers with real-time insights. Priced at €500, with an annual subscription fee of €100, the Soiltech sensor represents a significant advancement in precision agriculture, allowing for better-informed decision-making throughout the potato supply chain.
The focus on AI and electronics at Interpom underscores a broader trend within the agricultural sector, where technology is increasingly seen as a crucial ally in addressing challenges such as labor shortages, pest management, and environmental sustainability. As the potato industry continues to evolve, events like Interpom will remain essential for fostering collaboration and innovation, ensuring that farmers have access to the latest tools and technologies to thrive in a competitive market. The integration of advanced machinery and smart technologies signals a promising future for potato cultivation, processing, and marketing, ultimately benefiting both producers and consumers alike.