New protocols for assessing VSCU as part of the registration of potato varieties

The CTPS Potato Section met on 19 June, chaired by Hervé Durand, and proposed:

A VSCU assessment protocol for TPS varieties

The CTPS section has approved the implementation of a protocol for evaluating the agronomic value of varieties derived from true potato seeds, commonly known as TPS (True Potato Seeds). The varieties will be evaluated on the basis of the VSCU (Value for Cultivation, Use and Sustainability) protocol using tubers, supplemented by a special trial using seeds to assess agronomic criteria across the seed–tuber cycle.

A review of the protocol for evaluating the behaviour of varieties in relation to potato virus Y (PVY)

The results produced as part of the IMPROVE research programme, funded by CASDAR – Connaissances, have led to proposals for methodological improvements to the protocol for evaluating the behaviour of varieties in relation to the Y virus.

This new protocol will provide more reliable information, which is, in particular, an integral part of the process for awarding agroecology classifications. This criterion is also essential for the management of varieties intended for seed production.

Regulatory News

As the draft PRM Regulation (regulations on plant reproductive material) is at an advanced stage, a set of recommendations for the drafting of secondary legislation has been drawn up by the CTPS Control and Certification experts. The Section has endorsed these initial recommendations and encourages the experts to continue this work.

The Section’s members warmly thanked Hervé Durand, who was chairing his final Section meeting, for his dynamic and incisive leadership, which contributed significantly to the successful completion of these protocols and their implementation.