Products shows strong efficacy against all life stages of key pests in lab and field trials

In trials the bioinsecticide has proved effective against aphids and other key pests

In trials the bioinsecticide has proved effective against aphids and other key pests

British biopesticide manufacturer Eden Research has reported positive results from widespread trials of a new product for fresh produce growers.

In more than 30 laboratory trials and over 140 field trials in Europe and the US, the developmental bioinsecticide was tested against aphids, spider mites, whiteflies and other target pests at various stages of their development.

Results showed strong efficacy against all life stages of these key pests. Performance was reported to be “equivalent or superior” to registered products produced by some of the world’s leading biochemical companies.

Eden Research CEO Sean Smith said: “The trials, undertaken by Eden and independently by several potential commercial partners interested in gaining rights to the product, show extremely promising efficacy and consistency in combating these pests known to critically impact crop yields.

“This is an exciting step in our journey to bring this product to farmers who are looking for effective, sustainable solutions to control pests, whilst also making further progress against our product diversification and business growth objectives.”

Every year, up to 40 per cent of crops are lost due to plant pests and diseases. Meanwhile, the UN estimates that 50 per cent more food will be needed to feed the world’s growing population by 2050.

Insects remain one of the most significant challenges to farming efforts across the globe, causing both direct and indirect damage to crops through feeding and the transmission of disease. This costs the global economy an estimated $70 billion a year, according to the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization.

At the same time, conventional insecticide products face increased regulatory scrutiny due to their potential for harmful effects on the environment and wildlife, including bees and other beneficial insects.

Eden said its bioinsecticides can provide farmers with sustainable and competitive alternatives to conventional products, offering “ease of use, efficacy, safety, cost and reliability”.

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