Hutton Scientific Services has launched a potato virus testing service for the 2026 seed potato campaign, following SASA’s withdrawal from commercial testing. The service will screen for PVY and PLRV to support seed certification, marketing and crop management decisions.
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New commercial service will test for PVY and PLRV following SASA’s withdrawal from commercial potato virus testing
Hutton Scientific Services (HSS), the commercial arm of The James Hutton Institute, has launched a new commercial potato virus testing service for the 2026 seed potato campaign.
The service was developed in response to the withdrawal of commercial testing services by Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA).
Supporting Confidence in Scottish Seed Potatoes
The new service is intended to ensure continued access to reliable virus testing for the UK seed potato sector.
HSS said the testing will help maintain market confidence in Scottish-origin seed potatoes while supporting management, certification and marketing decisions across the industry.
“The availability of reliable and robust virus testing services is essential to maintain market confidence primarily in Scottish origin seed.”
Dr Louise Gamble, Delivery Lead for the new virus testing service, said, “With SASA stepping back from commercial testing, the availability of reliable and robust virus testing services is essential to maintain market confidence primarily in Scottish origin seed.
“With the unique combination of glasshouse facilities and relevant expertise in potato plant pathology, HSS has endeavoured to develop a service which meets Scotland’s need for post-harvest virus testing for the two most prevalent viruses, potato leaf roll virus (PLRV) and potato virus Y (PVY).
“Our aim is to continue to align with industry’s biggest challenges whilst building on the Hutton’s international reputation for quality and excellence in commercial testing.”
Testing Targets Two Major Potato Viruses
Potato-infecting viruses remain a significant threat to crop health, yields and certification standards in the seed potato sector, according to a press release.
Aphid-transmitted viruses such as PLRV and PVY can cause substantial economic losses and lead to crops being downgraded if infections are not effectively monitored and managed.
By adding commercial virus testing to its services, HSS aims to support the reputation of Great Britain’s high-health seed potato stocks and provide the industry with diagnostic information at a critical point in the production and marketing cycle.
ELISA and Rapid PCR Testing Available
Customers will have access to ELISA, or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, tests and rapid real-time polymerase chain reaction testing.
Screening for both PVY and PLRV will be included as standard. The service is designed to provide growers, seed producers, exporters and agronomists with diagnostic information to support crop management and market planning.
HSS, in collaboration with the Centre for Agricultural Sustainable Innovation (CASI), has begun accepting bookings on a first-come, first-served basis. All samples require confirmation before they are submitted.
Potato Health Services Expanded
The virus testing service expands the Hutton’s existing portfolio of potato health services.
HSS already provides testing for late blight, potato cyst nematodes and free-living nematodes.
The organization provides scientific research and technical expertise across agriculture, environmental management and food security, with a focus on applied science and industry collaboration.
Service Aims to Fill Industry Testing Gap
Commenting on the launch, Jamie Smith, Business Development Manager at HSS, said, “The withdrawal of SASA’s commercial testing service creates a clear gap for the industry at a time when demand for high-quality virus diagnostics remains strong.“Our aim is to provide a seamless and financially competitive transition for customers seeking a trusted virus testing provider, whilst delivering the same excellence, reliability, and independence that underpins Hutton’s existing potato-related commercial services.”
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