Innovations in potato varieties, packaging and agroecology

The agricultural cooperative of Noirmoutier started harvesting early potatoes around the 20th of March. The campaign is gradually gaining momentum. "We are now harvesting the open field potatoes, with a few local operations, and we will start with supplies from all over France this week," explains Nicolas Paille, director of the cooperative.

Photo credit: La Noirmoutier

New late-season variety
A lack of plant availability due to climate and regulations resulted in some unforeseen planting problems this year. However, the production is expected to be perfectly normal. "We feel that there is a demand for our products, and we are confident that the campaign will progress well. This year, we have a new late-season variety, the Maïwen, which has a firm, tasty flesh that is slightly darker than the other varieties of the range. It is also resistant to mildew. It is important to end the season with good varieties."

Photo credit: La Noirmoutier

New packaging with 70% recycled plastic
Volumes are expected to rise rapidly, accompanied by offers adapted to this increase in production. There is another novelty this year regarding packaging. "We are delighted to have had the permanent exemption for the use of plastic packaging made official. We now hope that the application of European regulations will confirm this French exemption." But the cooperative has already been using new "greener" packaging. "We are innovating this year with the acquisition of plastic-based freshness bags made from 70% recycled materials, a real innovation for the fruit and vegetable sector."

Photo credit: La Noirmoutier

Stronger agro-ecological commitment
This year, the partners of the Noirmoutier cooperative have decided to make an even greater commitment to the Zero Pesticide Residue approach. "For some time now, all our production has been committed to a ZRP approach, which is becoming the norm. We have been working on glyphosate use practices, with an 80% reduction target. By 2023, we have already reduced our use by 40% compared with previous years, and we are making increasing use of plant cover after planting." The cooperative is committed to virtuous production for the end consumer, as well as for the island's inhabitants. "We have signed a 'good neighbor' charter with the local community, which is more restrictive than the classic French charter. For example, we do not treat on weekends, except in case of absolute emergencies involving mildew."

Photo credit: La Noirmoutier

A sector that attracts young producers
The lack of generational renewal in the agricultural sector has been a cause for concern in France. The Noirmoutier potato production, however, continues to attract young producers. "We are lucky to have a young average age, and we are determined to keep it that way. At the end of the year, we will be handing over a family farm from father to son, which will help us in our goal to perpetuate the sector through the younger generation."

Photo credit: La Noirmoutier