Scottish seed producers will soon have faster access to a complete record of all certification data collected during inspections of seed potatoes.

Data including virus, blackleg and off-type levels in the growing crop, and the presence of rots, skin-finish diseases, damage and misshapen tubers will be collated on a new Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA) database, MySpuds.

The database will help seed suppliers improve quality in the supply chain and allow them to meet individual customer requirements better, says John Kerr, head of potato branch at SASA.

“Applicants, who could have several growers producing seed for them, will have instant access to certification data on all their crops as soon as it is filed by the inspector. This will give them much better control over their crops.”

In practice, this should mean data being available around a month earlier than currently, he suggests. “Previously applicants had to wait until all the data was captured before being able to access it, usually in mid-September. We’re hoping this system will bring that forward by around a month.”

Individual growers will also be able to access their own field data, while suppliers will be able to provide findings to customers, allowing them to check seed quality really is as described.

“This sort of information is not currently available and this database will add impetus to Scotland’s export drive.”

Demonstrating to international clients that seed to be used for further multiplication is free from virus more easily will be a valuable benefit of the new system, says David Scott, export sales manager for Higgins.

“Previously we’ve had to ask the inspectorate to supply that information for us to pass onto our clients. This should be much simpler.”

That will also apply to other clients, who have particular sensitivity to particular disorders, he adds. “It should be easier to make sure we match the right stock to their needs.”

World Potato Congress 2012

Dr Kerr will be examining the role of seed certification in the production of healthy profitable crops and the development of a global certification standard to help free-up movement of seed at the World Potato Congress in Edinburgh.

The event, organised this year by the Potato Council, is being held over four days at the end of May, and will feature speakers from all over the world discussing current challenges for the potato industry, from water use and improving storage to future threats and opportunities.

Presentations will include a focus on the world’s largest potato producer, China, and a look at innovative approaches to future potato agronomy.