The HJV Split Grader prototype, featuring an integrated Tomra 3A optical sorter to detect and remove debris and green potatoes, drew plenty of attention during the Ontario Potato Board's Potato Field Day Aug. 21 at HJV Equipment near Alliston. Photo Diana Martin

HJV unveils split grader with Tomra Optical Sorter at Potato Field Day

New prototype promises faster field-to-storage transfer, reduced debris, and labour savings; commercial release expected in 2026.

At Ontario’s Potato Field Day, farmers got a first look at HJV’s Split Grader prototype. Paired with a Tomra 3A optical sorter, the system removes green potatoes and debris at 100 tons per hour, improving storage quality and reducing labour needs.

Hot, dry summer cuts into Ontario potato yields

Hot, dry summer cuts into Ontario potato yields

While heat stress and storage issues remain a concern, recent rainfall and cooler nights could improve harvest quality

Ontario’s record-breaking summer heat and drought could cut potato yields by between 20 and 50 per cent in some fields but cooler nights and rainfall may help salvage harvest quality.

Photo: andresr/istock/getty images

AI made me eat it

Artificial intelligence is already transforming the food we eat, how farmers produce it and how it reaches the consumer, experts say

Artificial intelligence is already transforming the food we eat, how farmers produce it and how it reaches the consumer, experts say





A survey conducted last year by the Canadian Centre for Food Integrity found that only three in 10 Canadians believe the food system is on the right track. Photo: File

Public trust in Canadian food system at a low

Research organization says more needs to be done by the agriculture industry to engage consumers and gain influence

The Canadian food system's reputation has taken a significant hit in the last couple years, said Ashely Bruner of the Canadian Centre for Food Integrity (CCFI) during a recent webinar.

Farm and Food Care Ontario gets $597,000 in program funding

Farm and Food Care Ontario gets $597,000 in program funding

Provincial funding will support six public outreach initiatives

Farm & Food Care Ontario (FFCO) gets a $597,000, three-year funding agreement from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFA) to enhance and expand consumer outreach and farmer and agri-business training.