Alex McDonald Ltd
The Pathogen Tested Scheme
In 1976, Alex McDonalds entered a Joint Venture with Crop Research DSIR for the production of potatoes using the tissue culture method. After 4 years trialing, this was accepted by NZ M.A.F and Crop Research DSIR as a worthwhile improvement in the production of quality seed potatoes and we entered a long term joint venture at that time. This carries on today with a contract operating with Plant & Food Research Institute Ltd - Lincoln, where we employ one full time scientist and one glasshouse manager using laboratory and glasshouse facilities provided by Plant & Food Research Institute Ltd.
This forms the basis of the Pathogen Tested Certification Scheme which now handles approximately 65% of the seed potatoes required in New Zealand. We currently produce approximately 70 commercial varieties to meet the New Zealand industry's requirements.
