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Agribusiness, Agrotech, Company News, Packaging & Labelling, R&D, Supply Chain, World

Vidre+® Stickers and Vidre+® Complex, when applied to packaging and films, extend the shelf life and quality of more produce than ever possible before.

European-based Fresh Inset announced today that it is introducing Vidre+ Complex, its breakthrough technology that unlocks the full potential of 1-MCP (1-Methylcyclopropene) application across the entire supply chain, to the United States. Vidre+ is revolutionizing the supply chain seamlessly without any reorganization of current operating practices, by making every existing type of fresh produce packaging and label functional and adaptable into a smart version with adjustable protection against the negative effects of ethylene. Vidre+ Stickers, a flagship product, can be tailored to optimize size and dose rate, ensuring effective protection for ethylene-sensitive produce in any type or size of packaging, including cardboard boxes, bags, trays and clamshells. Branding and white-label opportunities are also available.

The patented timed and gradual release of 1-MCP in Vidre+ technology ensures a controlled application effectively extending the freshness, quality, appearance and nutrient values of produce. This approach provides optimal protection during storage, transport, and retail.

“Research has proven Vidre+ is effective on cherries, blueberries, raspberries, table grapes, limes, tomatoes, avocados, leafy greens, broccoli, peppers and more,” said Tim Malefyt, PhD, Fresh Inset’s Chief Technology Officer. “It can be used right after harvest as well as during transport or storage to provide days to weeks (depending on the crop type) of additional shelf life to freshly harvested produce, helping to keep its quality and nutritional value and remain fit for the market. We are excited to offer a solution that extends beyond apples and pears to benefit many other produce categories. This is a game changer.”

Reimagining the future of 1-MCP technology

Vidre+ has received GRAS status by the FDA and is already revolutionizing 1-MCP delivery with the Vidre+ functional sticker. But there is more on the horizon for Fresh Inset. The company is disrupting and de-commoditizing the flexible and cardboard packaging industries with Vidre+ Complex by empowering PE, PP, PET films and paper cardboard that carry Vidre+ technology with the ability to extend freshness, without creating additional landfill waste.

“The use of Vidre+ to combat the negative effects of ethylene and extend produce shelf life is not new. However, Fresh Inset has taken it to the next level with dose rate flexibility and gradual release technology that is operationally simple, affordable and enhances profitability,” said Kevin Frye, Fresh Inset’s VP Market Development, North America. “This is an incredibly exciting innovation that is garnering unprecedented interest amongst growers, packers, shippers and retailers alike, as they can all easily incorporate it into their operations and benefit from it, while increasing their sustainability efforts toward food waste reduction. Packaging companies are equally excited about the ability to empower their existing bags, boxes and clamshells with a freshness function and deliver added value packaging to their customers that will actually improve the freshness and quality of their produce.”

Vidre+® Stickers and Vidre+® Complex, when applied

Agro chems – Chemicals, Company News, World

This expansion marks another milestone in Nouryon’s commitment to meeting market demand and supporting customer growth

Nouryon, a global speciality chemicals leader, announced that it has completed a production capacity expansion of nearly 50 per cent for its Levasil colloidal silica products at its manufacturing facility in Green Bay, Wisconsin, US. The increase addresses the rising demand for colloidal silica, particularly in North America, and strategically expands the Company’s global colloidal silica manufacturing footprint to serve regional and global customers.

“Growing demand for Levasil colloidal silica, particularly in North America, is the driver of the expansion at our production facility,” said Patrick Wilhelm, Vice President of Inorganic Specialties at Nouryon. “New factories for batteries, electric vehicles, and semiconductors in artificial intelligence applications are driving the rising customer demand. This latest capacity increase will enable us to serve global customers with our high-quality solutions.” 

Nouryon’s Levasil colloidal silica, derived from two natural ingredients – sand and water – exhibits exceptional versatility and serves a variety of end markets. They are used as a “high-tech” abrasive in electronics applications for shaping, smoothing, and polishing silicon, metals, sapphire, and other precision substrate materials. In building and construction applications, they are used by admixture companies to increase the durability and strength of concrete.  

As a leading global producer of high-performance silica, Nouryon leverages over 60 years of experience in manufacturing Levasil colloidal silica and operates eight Levasil production facilities worldwide. This expansion marks another milestone in Nouryon’s commitment to meeting market demand and supporting customer growth.

This expansion marks another milestone in Nouryon’s

Floriculture, Industry Reports / Analysis, World

The Statistics Yearbook provides production data from countries in Europe, Asia, North America, and South America, with detailed breakdowns, product comparisons, market data and prices and global import and export data

The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH), in association with Union Fleurs, the International Flower Trade Association, announces the 71st version of International Statistics – Flowers and Plants 2023.

The International Statistics Flowers and Plants Yearbook has the most comprehensive production and trade data collection for the ornamental plants and flower industry. It is now available to purchase and instantly download from www.aiph.org.

This annual publication on the ornamental horticultural industry is invaluable to trade organisations, policymakers, marketers, producers, traders, libraries, and universities. In its 71st year, the contents result from extensive research and data compiled by the Centre for Business Management in Horticulture and Applied Research at the University of Hohenheim, Germany.

The Statistics Yearbook provides production data from countries in Europe, Asia, North America, and South America, with detailed breakdowns, product comparisons, market data and prices and global import and export data. This edition also features additional survey responses, carried out in Spring 2023, from member organisations of AIPH and Union Fleurs about the Economic development of ornamental horticulture in 2022.

For the first time, this edition also includes statistics about licensing from the Community Plant Variety Office (CPVO) in Angers, France.

The 2023 Yearbook is published as a digital document with 238 pages featuring illustrations, tables, diagrams, and maps of crucial production data.

The Statistics Yearbook provides production data from

Company News, Finance, World

Third quarter results significantly impacted by lower sales in Latin America channel destocking in all regions

FMC Corporation reported a third-quarter 2023 revenue of $982 million, a decrease of 29 per cent versus the third quarter of 2022 and down 29 per cent organically. On a GAAP basis, the company reported a net loss of $0.03 per diluted share in the third quarter, down 103 per cent versus the third quarter of 2022. Adjusted earnings were $0.44 per diluted share, a decrease of 64 per cent versus the third quarter 2022.

“Our results were significantly below the prior year driven by volume headwinds from a continuation of channel destocking behaviour that began in the prior quarter.  Destocking was much worse than anticipated in Brazil. Despite this, on-the-ground application remains steady as growers continue to protect their crops,” said Mark Douglas, FMC president and chief executive officer.  “Branded diamides and our new products outperformed the overall portfolio, which illustrates robustness for differentiated and higher value products even in challenging environments.”

Revenue in the quarter was driven by a 26 per cent decline in volume. Price increases in North America, EMEA and Asia were more than offset by price decreases in Latin America. FX impacts were neutral to revenue.  While overall sales were down 29 per cent, sales of products launched in the last five years were up 4 per cent year-over-year, with growth in all regions.

Sales in all regions declined versus the prior-year period as partners, the distribution channel and growers continued to reduce inventory levels. In North America, revenue was down 34 per cent year-over-year (down 34 per cent organically). EMEA revenue declined 1 per cent (down 4 per cent organically) compared to the third quarter of 2022, as higher pricing and FX tailwinds mostly offset lower volumes. Sales in Asia declined 28 per cent (down 23 per cent organically) as continued destocking across the region negatively impacted volumes. The region reported a 16 per cent growth in products launched in the last five years. In Latin America, revenue was down 33 per cent (down 36 per cent organically) year-over-year driven mainly by lower volumes primarily due to severe destocking in Brazil and, to a lesser extent, drought conditions in Argentina.  Globally, Plant Health revenue was down 20 per cent (down 17 per cent organically) versus the prior year driven by similar, but less severe channel destocking dynamics. 

Third quarter results significantly impacted by lower sales in Latin America channel destocking

Company News, Textile industry, World

BASF supports cotton production in the United States with the e3 Sustainable Cotton program and in Europe with the Certified Sustainable FiberMax program

Farmers across the globe are working to meet the ever-increasing demand for sustainably grown cotton. Truly sustainable sourcing of natural fibres can be complex and challenging, which is why BASF Agricultural Solutions brought together a global delegation of farmers from Europe and the United States to ensure their voices are heard and supported.

The event, aptly named ‘United for the Biggest Job on Earth’, was held at the United Nations headquarters and featured various farmers from Greece and the United States, as well as leadership from BASF Agricultural Solutions North America and Europe. Also in attendance were sustainable fashion and agriculture media.

“BASF is dedicated to creating a better future for cotton production and the cotton textile industry,” said Ray Daniels, Seed Sustainability Manager at BASF. “We understand that cotton farmers are the cornerstone of sustainable production, which is why we are giving them an international platform to share their ideas on how agriculture must meet the needs of present and future generations through profitability, environmental health and social and economic equity.”

While sustainable farming sounds new, the principles are not. Farmers across cotton-producing regions in the United States and Europe have leveraged these practices to help reduce soil erosion and improve soil health while reducing excess nitrogen use. The renewed focus on these practices by the textile industry provides farmers with an opportunity to demonstrate their inherent sustainable nature publicly in this global workshop.

“We really appreciated the opportunity to attend this event and have our voices heard,” said Texas cotton growers, Randy and Pat Smith. “Consumers aren’t always aware of the effort growers like us put into regenerative agriculture practices, and we want to continue to share our story and gain their support.”

BASF supports cotton production in the United States with the e3 Sustainable Cotton program and in Europe with the Certified Sustainable FiberMax program. Both provide field-level traceability for cotton, as well as a way for farmers to track and measure the environmental and social impacts of their cotton production.

“Agriculture is so central to our lives, but many do not consider the powerful impact it can have,” said Gustavo Palerosi Carneiro, Vice-President, BASF Agricultural Solutions EMEA & CIS. “It’s also an industry undergoing a time of unprecedented change. Farmers have an increasingly difficult yet important role of balancing the need for increased productivity, environmental protection, and value to society.”

BASF supports cotton production in the United States with

Company News, Machinery - Pre-harvesting, World

The T4 Electric Power offers powerful, emission-free and silent energy power with high torque and fast response achieved at the lowest speeds, promoting a new level of driving experience

For 2024, New Holland Agriculture is introducing the first all-electric utility tractor with autonomous features: the T4 Electric Power. This cutting-edge tractor opens a new class in the market, Utility Electric, focused on offering solutions for more efficient field operations. The T4 Electric Power addresses current farming challenges, such as increased total cost ownership and labour shortage, while delivering upon New Holland’s unwavering commitment to helping customers build more sustainable agriculture for this generation and beyond.

The T4 Electric Power is a game-changing innovation that ushers in a new era of modern agriculture. An ideal solution for lower horsepower field operations, it is suitable for multiple applications, such as mixed farm, hay and forage, dairy, livestock, municipality, greenhouse and speciality crops (vegetable and orchard). The tractor is the latest development in New Holland’s strategic plan for electrification and the newest addition to the brand’s lineup of alternative energy sources powered equipment, like the T7 Methane Power LNG (Liquified Natural Gas) and the T6.180 Methane Power. Equipped with a state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery pack, the T4 Electric Power delivers gradual power and continuous torque achieved at the lowest speeds, ensuring a completely new driving experience and seamless operation during loader work cycles and daily farm routines.

“This tractor is a significant step forward for growers, producers and municipalities. The T4 Electric Power addresses a number of challenges they are facing every day on their operations,” states Lena Bioni, product marketing manager for New Holland Agriculture North America. “What New Holland is bringing to our farmers is a convergence of technology – electric propulsion, autonomous features, better performance – in the body of a utility tractor that’s setting the stage for a more efficient, sustainable and resilient future our customers are striving for.”

The T4 Electric Power offers powerful, emission-free

Agrotech, Company News, North America, Sustainability

The collaboration between PepsiCo and Walmart offers a voluntary, flexible approach to regenerative agriculture

PepsiCo and Walmart announced a 7-year collaboration to pursue $120 million worth of investments focused on supporting U.S. and Canadian farmers in their pursuit to improve soil health and water quality. By establishing and scaling financial, agronomic and social programs, it aims to enable and accelerate the adoption of regenerative agriculture practices on more than 2 million acres of farmland and deliver approximately 4 million metric tons of greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions and removals by 2030 – roughly equivalent to the amount of electricity needed to power 778,300 homes for one year1. 

Commenting on the voluntary adoption of regenerative agriculture practices, Jeff Huffman, Owner & Operator of Island Farms LLC in Maxwell, Neb., said, “From my perspective, embracing regenerative agriculture is essential. It’s good for farmers, not only because it’s beneficial to the environment and our food quality, but also for the profitability of our businesses. If you use less fertiliser and you grow a bigger crop, or if you use less water and can still grow the same size of the crop, it strengthens your farm in a way that benefits the bottom line and our environment for generations to come.”

PepsiCo’s and Walmart’s businesses are dependent on farmers to grow ingredients that are used to make delicious products that consumers enjoy every day. With a supply chain for the two companies that stretches across North America and involves a large volume of critical crops – including potatoes, oats, corn, wheat, soybean and rice – sustainability will look different from commodity to commodity, region to region, and even farm to farm. The collaboration between PepsiCo and Walmart offers a voluntary, flexible approach to regenerative agriculture that gives farmers a seat at the table, recognises the diversity of agriculture and that one size does not fit all.

“At Walmart, our sustainability strategy is built to make the everyday choice the sustainable choice for our customers. This collaboration with PepsiCo is a great example of how we are prioritising the expansion of regenerative agricultural practices among farmers across North America so that we can continue to make quality products affordable and accessible for customers. This collaboration aims to help elevate farmer livelihoods, engage them on how to more sustainably manage soil health, increase yields and create a model that others can mimic across other product categories, including encouraging additional investments in regenerative agriculture by other brands,” said Jane Ewing, Senior Vice President for sustainability at Walmart.

The collaboration between PepsiCo and Walmart offers

Europe, Horticulture, North America, Supply Chain, Trade

The resurgence of international travel has played a significant role in opening up new markets for durian

Agroforestry Group announced a remarkable surge in business across North America, Europe, and Africa. This growth is propelled by the resurgence of international travel, mounting consumer interest, and businesses seeking innovative selling propositions.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for durian primarily originated from the Asia-Pacific region. Domestically, Malaysia led the way, followed by Singapore, Hong Kong, and China. While these countries remain crucial markets for the company, Agroforestry Group has witnessed a surge of inquiries from new markets, indicating a significant expansion in interest.

Paul Martin, Managing Director of Agroforestry Group, stated, “The surge in enquiries from new markets, particularly North America, Europe and Africa, has been staggering. The unexpected volume of interest from these regions was almost non-existent before the pandemic.”

The resurgence of international travel has played a significant role in opening up new markets for durian. Tourists visiting Asia inevitably encounter durian in various forms, as durian products are widely available throughout the region, both in Malaysia and other countries. Notably, The United Nations World Tourism Agency (UNWTO) reports a remarkable 200 per cent year-on-year surge in international tourism, with travel figures reaching 80 per cent of pre-pandemic levels in Q1 2023.

The post-pandemic shift in consumer and business sentiment in new markets has emerged as a significant driving force. Consumers have become more curious and adventurous, eager to explore diverse products and experiences. In response, businesses are strategically catering to this evolving consumer landscape, offering unique and innovative products. As a result, durian has been gaining traction internationally, with F&B companies introducing it in North America, Europe, and even Africa.

The resurgence of international travel has played

Company News, Finance, World

Significant cost mitigation actions were initiated, reducing previously expected operating expenses in the second half by $60 to $70 million.

FMC Corporation provided an update for its expectations on the second quarter and full-year 2023 outlook1. Revenue in the second quarter is now expected to be between $1.00 billion and $1.03 billion. Adjusted EBITDA is expected to be in the range of $185 million to $190 million. The revised guidance is driven by substantially lower-than-expected volumes due to an abrupt and significant reduction in inventory by channel partners, which only became evident towards the end of May and continued through the remainder of the quarter in North America, Latin America and EMEA.

Based on current channel dynamics, the Company is revising its full-year financial outlook, with revenue now expected to be $5.20 billion to $5.40 billion. Adjusted EBITDA for the full year is now expected to be $1.30 billion to $1.40 billion.

“Towards the end of May, we experienced unforeseen and unprecedented volume declines in three out of our four operating regions, as our channel partners rapidly reduced inventory levels,” said Mark Douglas, FMC president and chief executive officer. “Our full-year revenue outlook and adjusted EBITDA have been revised to reflect these channel dynamics and their impact on volumes, as well as the benefit from improved input costs and the significant operating cost mitigation actions we have already implemented.

“Even as we manage through this market contraction and significant inventory reduction by our channel partners, on-the-ground consumption of our products remains strong and at similar levels to last year,” Douglas said.

Information in this news release is preliminary and excludes the outlook on adjusted earnings per share and free cash flow, which will be updated at the second quarter 2023 earnings call. FMC will announce its second quarter 2023 earnings on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, after the stock market close with a webcast conference call on Thursday, August 3, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. ET. 

Significant cost mitigation actions were initiated, reducing

Agrotech, Company News, Supply Chain, Vegetables, Warehousing, World

Cellar Insights is a Canadian AgTech startup built around a sophisticated suite of sensors and cloud-based algorithms that remotely monitor potato health in long-term storage

Carrot Ventures has announced the launch of Cellar Insights. It is the second company emerging from Carrot’s AgTech company formation model.  

“We’re extremely pleased to be launching Cellar Insights,” says Martin Vetter, a venture partner with Carrot. “Reducing food loss and optimising the quality of crops post-harvest is an issue of worldwide importance. Potatoes are the world’s third most important food crop, produced in over 100 countries. It is an essential and nutritious food staple, which has led to soaring cultivation rates in India and China. In North America, production value exceeds $4 billion annually, with retail sales approaching $14 billion. Unfortunately, potatoes and other root crops – such as carrots and onions – experience significant losses during storage. Effective storage management practices are vital, and we believe Cellar Insights offers a compelling solution.”

Cellar Insights is a Canadian AgTech startup built around a sophisticated suite of sensors and cloud-based algorithms that remotely monitor potato health in long-term storage. The solution includes predictive models and offers management insights to optimise returns.   

Millions of potatoes get stored for up to 11 months in massive climate-controlled facilities. During such long storage periods, farmers face an escalating risk of loss due to shrinkage, reductions in quality, disease, sprouting or spoilage.

Potato storage practices vary widely in levels of sophistication globally, and losses can be as high as 10 to 25 per cent. Cellar Insights aims to offer farmers a reliable tool for remotely monitoring and managing the health and value of their stored root crops.

Recruiting the right person to lead the venture is core to the Carrot Ventures model. For Cellar Insights, that person is Terry Sydoryk, who has assumed the role of Founder and CEO.

Terry shared that, “Leading Cellar Insights is an exciting opportunity for me.  Starting out with a vetted technology, a global market opportunity and a committed lead investor is very compelling. The Carrot investment model and their involvement will accelerate our path to market considerably.”

Cellar Insights is a Canadian AgTech startup

Acquaculture, Europe, Japan, Sustainability, Trade, World

North America, Europe, and Japan have confirmed their participation

The Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) and Sustainable Shrimp Partnership (SSP) are hosting ASC Shrimp Summit on June 12-14, 2023. This year, shrimp buyers from all three major and promising export markets of Ecuador – North America, Europe, and Japan – have confirmed their participation.

“Connecting the marketplace to the producers is a vital part of our work at ASC in promoting ASC-certified shrimp and demonstrating how responsible aquaculture production works. We are very excited to bring major retailers from Japan to Ecuador, which is an important supplier to this market for high-quality shrimp,” Koji Yamamoto, ASC General Manager in Japan, said.

“In the previous edition of the ASC Shrimp Summit, our esteemed North American guests explored the world of Ecuadorian shrimp. They experienced the commitments of SSP producers that embrace the best practices with the highest quality and social and environmental responsibility, complying with ASC label requirements, and with a special focus on zero use of antibiotics, neutral impact on water and full traceability. Their findings confirmed why Ecuador is the leading producer and exporter of shrimp in the world. This year, we are excited to expand this encounter to Europe and Asia, enabling more representatives from our three main markets to witness firsthand the exceptional efforts of our industry,” Pamela Nath, Director of the Sustainable Shrimp Partnership, said.

Ecuador is the world’s leading shrimp producer and exporter of Pacific white shrimp (P. vannamei), supplying all major shrimp markets such as Europe, China and the US. In 2022, Ecuador exported more than 1 million MT of shrimp, reaching 66 countries, and adding $6.7 billion in exports. Ecuador also accounts for approximately 40 per cent of available ASC-certified shrimp in the world.

A packed and exciting agenda awaits the participants of the ASC Shrimp Summit in Guayaquil. During the visit, participants will tour ASC-certified farms and processing plants to see firsthand what responsible aquaculture production looks like. The tour also includes a visit to a feed mill, an important aspect of responsible seafood farming, which is now covered by the ASC Feed Standard.

North America, Europe, and Japan have confirmed

Company News, Foodgrains, North America, Supply Chain, Sustainability, Vegetables

By elevating produce with Instacart Ads, consumers can discover nutritious food as they build their daily and weekly grocery baskets

Instacart, the leading grocery technology company in North America, announced an industry-first online advertising capability, enabling produce brands to advertise fresh, weighted items – such as carrots, grapes, onions, oranges, sweet potatoes, and watermelons – from the produce department across the Instacart Marketplace.

During National Nutrition Month, Instacart is levelling the advertising playing field, making it possible for more product brands, farms, and agriculture boards to advertise on Instacart and reach more consumers. By elevating produce with Instacart Ads, consumers can discover nutritious food as they build their daily and weekly grocery baskets, search for a specific ingredient, and browse the digital aisles for inspiration.

“It’s essential that consumers have access to fresh, nutritious produce – whether they shop online or in-store,” said Ali Miller, Vice President of Ads Products at Instacart. “Online grocery offers a unique experience, helping brands deeply connect with and engage consumers as they explore new products or their usual staples across the digital aisles. With today’s launch, millions of consumers will discover more fresh and nutritious options as they shop on Instacart, levelling the playing field for producers and ensuring everything from fresh citrus to sweet potatoes are just as discoverable as packaged goods. I’m especially proud to celebrate these new capabilities during National Nutrition Month, as we do our part to help influence healthier eating habits.”

Instacart is the first company to enable this ad innovation for weighted items across grocery partners. Instacart developed algorithms to map these items back to brands and partners – addressing challenges like limited information from third-party sources and different coding systems across grocers. Instacart is addressing this complex industry challenge so more product brands can take advantage of advertising solutions and help consumers discover more nutritious foods.

“For 130 years, Sunkist Growers has been focused on delivering quality, fresh citrus to consumers. In fact, Sunkist’s first advertisement celebrated California’s ‘Orange Day’ back in 1908,” said Christina Ward, Senior Director at Sunkist Growers. “In recent years, shopper behaviours have dramatically changed—at Sunkist, we are all about meeting shoppers where they want to buy. On Instacart, we have a seamless ‘add-to-cart’ button to guide millions of people across the country towards our fresh Sunkist fruits, which are then delivered to their homes in as fast as an hour.”

Since 2020, Instacart has partnered with nearly 60 packaged produce advertisers to amplify their products and elevate the category. On average, Instacart’s packaged produce advertisers see a 30 per cent increase in sales1, meaning their ads influence more product purchases. Packaged produce advertisers can leverage the full Instacart advertising toolkit, including sponsored products, displays, shoppable videos, promotions, and impulse ads. With this latest enhancement to Instacart advertising and catalogue capabilities, produce brands can now amplify their full product set, including packaged and random-weight produce.

By elevating produce with Instacart Ads, consumers

Agro chems – Pesticides, Agrotech, North America

This fungicide offers farmers the flexibility to design effective crop protection plans based on their specific field conditions.

US-based Indigo Agriculture has announced the commercial launch of the industry’s first biological fungicide based on the microbe Kosakonia cowanii, giving farmers a leg up on the 2023 growing season.Initially registered and announced by the company in April 2022, biotrinsic X19 is the first fungicide in Indigo’s line of biological seed treatments, which offers farmers the flexibility to design effective crop protection plans based on their specific field conditions. The product establishes Indigo’s biotrinsic portfolio as one of the few in the industry capable of helping farmers address both biotic and abiotic stresses.

The product features a unique triple mode of action. When the microbes in biotrinsic X19 encounter mycelium or hyphae of targeted seedling disease pathogens, they rapidly surround the mycelium using Bioblocker™ action to form a microbial wall of separation between plant roots and the seedling disease, interfering with disease transference.

“We know farmers are always looking for new and better ways to raise the healthiest and most profitable crop and biotrinsic X19 can help farmers do just that,” said Peter Bunce, Commercial Head of Biologicals at Indigo Ag. “A breakthrough biofungicide that sets an uncompromising new standard for managing key seedling diseases in corn and soyabean acres, biotrinsic X19 works by empowering the plant’s natural disease management processes.”

Like all other products in the biotrinsic line, X19 uses microbes to fortify plant growth. The microbes in biotrinsic X19 are living organisms that grow in harmony with plants, colonising their roots and expanding the zone of disease intervention as the roots grow. In replicated university field trials, X19 recorded average yield uplifts of 2.6 bu/acre for soy and 8.6 bu/acre for corn.

“Anytime we can help plants protect themselves using natural elements, rather than introducing synthetic elements, it’s a benefit to both the plants and the soil,” said Jake Hoalt, co-founder and owner of Xceleration Ag, an Illinois farmer and ag retailer, who trialed the X19 product as part of biotrinsic Beta Fields, a program offering free and early access to some of the latest biological technologies to improve crop resilience.

This fungicide offers farmers the flexibility to

Agrotech, Bee keeping, Company News, North America

This first California order officially starts BVT’s launch stage in strawberry and raspberry market in US.

Bee Vectoring Technologies International Inc. has announced its closing of the first California sales order of its proprietary Vectorite with CR-7 (Clonostachys rosea CR-7) biological fungicide and natural precision agriculture system with a strawberry and raspberry grower for one of the world’s largest berry companies.

This first California order officially starts BVT’s Launch Stage in this important market. The grower will use BVT’s proprietary Vectorite with CR-7 biological fungicide and natural precision agriculture system on a portion of strawberry and raspberry crop acres.

“This first sale milestone is a key component of BVT’s strategy to expand into the state of California, which is the largest growing region and our most significant market opportunity in North America,” said Ashish Malik, CEO of BVT. “The opportunity in California includes several crops with an overall growing season which spans up to 10 months of the year, thus representing significantly larger and more diversified annual revenue streams for BVT.”

“The customer is a large, influential grower in the Watsonville and Salinas area,” said Ian Collinson, Sales Manager at BVT. “Their successful three-month demonstration trial of the BVT system last year and the resulting positive data were the main reasons for the customer to continue their business with BVT. Trial results showed the BVT system helped control fungal disease during the bloom period, which lead to healthier berries post-harvest that translated into real value for the berry company in higher quality packed berries and increased marketable yield.”

“The trial, which was also closely followed by the berry company, clearly showed the BVT system’s high return on investment. ROI’s of 6x or higher are the expectation by growers for agricultural input technologies in specialty crops like berries. Our recent work is demonstrating ROI for the BVT system of 10x or higher, and this is driving conversion of new customers to our system,” continued Mr. Collinson. “This led to this year’s sales order which was for a portion of the grower’s operation and is larger than we typically see in the first year, thus signalling the value and confidence the grower has in our technology.”

BVT continues to work closely with the grower to potentially expand the order to apply the Company’s system to their blueberry crop by this fall season, which could mean extending their BVT usage to eight months of the year, and with the berry company to introduce the system to their other growers.

California is the country’s largest berry market with an estimated 55,000(1) acres of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries representing 30% of the berry acreage in the US. As a 100% organic product delivered 100% naturally, the BVT system dovetails perfectly into the California market, controlling disease and increasing yield while being exempt from residue testing requirements.

This first California order officially starts BVT’s