On 4 July, at the Selva Maggiore farm in Bologna, Romagnoli F.lli Spa presented the results of the first field experiment in Italy to grow varieties of potatoes that are resistant to Peronospora, using methods that have a low environmental impact.

Quality, productivity, flavour, and versatility of use whilst respecting the environment are the aims of this project, which is being carried out by Romagnoli’s technical staff and the DIBAF department of Tuscia University, Legambiente, and CO.SE.PA (Consortium for Farming Services, a scientific partner of Legambiente).

The experiment was carried out in the Bologna region and involved 5 new varieties. 3 of these - Levante, Twister, and Twinner - have yellow flesh and skin; one variety, Carolus, has yellow skin with red eyes; and the other, Alouette, has red skin and yellow flesh.

The aim of this experiment was to test the resistance of the chosen varieties against Peronospora, the main fungal threat faced by potatoes. They were compared with other (control) varieties that are already widely produced and particularly vulnerable to infection. From the first evaluations carried out in the field, we have learnt that these varieties - also called “next generation” varieties - didn’t require any anti-peronosporic treatment, unlike their control varieties, which had plant protection products applied to them up to 7 times, which nevertheless did not harm the health of the crop and its production yields.

The success of this experiment is an important recognition of the company’s dedication to research and innovation aimed at developing a next-generation potato variety.