McCain makes promising start with regenerative agriculture

Last year, McCain launched a program for regenerative agriculture that has exceeded expectations, with McCain aiming to double the program's size by 2024. The Canadian company strongly believes in regenerative agriculture as a key element for a sustainable future in the agricultural sector.

Following the launch of regenerative agriculture at McCain in the Netherlands, 34 growers – collectively responsible for over 800 hectares of potatoes – have completed the program's initial phase. This positions the company alongside growers in promoting sustainable farming practices. Specifically, McCain rewards regenerative agriculture indicators ranging from resilient soils, crop diversity, minimizing soil disturbance, reducing pesticide toxicity, enhancing biodiversity, optimizing input use, and increasing organic carbon.

To promote the transition to regenerative agriculture, McCain has strengthened its partnership with Rabobank. A new interest rate discount on equipment necessary for regenerative agriculture has been introduced. This discount, up to 150 basis points, is supplemented by McCain, providing financial support to program participants.

Focus on knowledge sharing and development

In addition to financial support, the program focuses on sharing and developing knowledge. McCain analyzed participant data, with soil cover emerging as a commonly adopted practice among farmers. On average, participants had over 240 days of soil cover, which has positive effects on soil quality and biodiversity. Additionally, some farmers experimented with innovative fertilization methods, resulting in significantly higher nitrogen use efficiency (+19.7%) through the use of coated N fertilizers.

Future plans for sustainable farming practices

McCain will build upon this positive start and aims to implement regenerative agriculture practices across its entire potato acreage by 2030. The company is committed to leading the transition to sustainable agriculture, in line with recent sustainability reports and in collaboration with local farmers and financial partners.

Mccain.nl