Major Potato Pest Eradicated From UK

Major potato pest eradicated from UK

The Colorado beetle, a major threat to potato crops, was found in Kent in 2023. A major potato pest has been eradicated from the UK, the government has outlined today (Thursday 11 December 2025), following extensive operational investigative work and surveillance.

Major Potato Pest Eradicated As UK Industry Growth Opportunities Identified

Defra and APHA have declared the Colorado beetle, a serious threat to potato crops, eradicated following a two‑year surveillance and control campaign, as market research signals growth potential for UK potatoes in value-added and convenience formats.Following two years of intensive monitoring of outbreak and surrounding potato fields in Kent, there have been limited findings since the beetle was spotted in 2023, providing a boost for growers. Th…

Defra confirms eradication of Colorado potato beetle

A major potato pest, the Colorado beetle, has been successfully eradicated from the UK, according to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Defra explained that the Colorado beetle is a significant threat to growers as they can completely strip the leaves from potato plants and several other crops – including tomatoes, aubergines, and peppers – and can have a significant economic impact if left uncontrolled. The most rec…

UK eradicates Colorado beetle in major win for potato growers

The UK has scored a major biosecurity victory after eradicating the Colorado beetle, a destructive pest capable of devastating potato crops nationwide.