HZPC has developed innovative tools that are useful in the chain (harvesting, storage and processing). These fall under Solentum – Agro Insights, a separate company within HZPC Holding. The business concentrates on developing measurement methods and services for partners in the potato chain. The corresponding SolDataPlatform has also been launched. Solentum offers the following products:
This is an electronic potato that measures five crucial parameters in the growing and storage seasons: temperature, relative humidity, CO2, soil moisture and mechanical shocks. The SolAntennae can be placed at any location in a storage setting and measure the same parameters and make adjustments where necessary.
This is the first app with real-time information for potato growers. The app indicates the expected yield per hectare, the percentages of size categories, and the numbers of potato tubers in these categories. Businesses that buy potatoes can use the app to make earlier and quicker decisions about whether the yield is suitable for them.
Solentum SolEye has been developed for the processing industry; it’s a machine that accurately and consistently assesses the colour of fries. This independent, objective and cost-effective assessment method is hugely important for determining where the potato will be used. The technique is also used by packers to determine the homogeneity of cooking types.
Solentum selected for ‘Food Loss Challenge Asia’
At the end of 2018, Solentum was selected from a large group of candidates as one of the 20 start-up companies to provide a presentation to ‘Food Loss Challenge Asia’, sponsored by the Rabobank (www.foodlosschallenge.asia)