The AHDB has set aside £800,000 for information and support for potato store managers dealing with the impact of delays on the vote to re-approve chlorpropham (CIPC).

The re-approval of the sprout-suppressant chemical, which is used on 80% of stored potatoes, has been knocked back by the EU – which now has a vote due later this month.

Re-approval is not certain, after the European Food Safety Agency recommended it remains banned.

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The use of CIPC has already been approved for the current 2018-2019 storage season, at the same rates as last season.

In addition to the uncertainty on the status of CIPC, popular desiccant Diquat, which is used during potato harvest, has lost EU approval, with 2019 becoming the last growing season it can be used.

Maleic Hydrazide, a growth regulator also used for sprout suppression, has been re-approved, but with changes to its label that may reduce the extent of its use in the field.

Anyone looking for free storage should call the AHDB on 0800-0282111 to discuss alternative options.