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BIO 2023, Boston (BIO International Convention)
June 5-8, 2023; Boston Convention & Exhibition Center; Boston, MA
With our proven AgBio product development platform, deep expertise, and valuable intellectual property, AgriViro is well-positioned to lead the way in developing innovative AgBio products that take sustainable agriculture to the next level. Join us in our mission to advance eco-friendly plant health and partner with AgriViro for profitable, sustainable agriculture. To discuss transformative opportunities, meet with AgriViro at BIO 2023.
AgriViro expands its submerged microbial fermentation capacity
AgriViro, a biotechnology company with deep expertise in microbial fermentation, is proud to announce the expansion of its submerged fermentation capacity for the production of microbial biopesticides. The company has entered the final stages of setting up a new purpose-built facility that will allow for increased production of biopesticides.
The expansion of AgriViro’s submerged microbial fermentation capacity will accelerate product development and enable the company to produce a wide range of biopesticides, which can be used to control pests in agriculture and horticulture. The new facility features advanced equipment and technology that can be used to produce microbial biomass at a large scale.
AgriViro is committed to providing forward-thinking farmers with cutting-edge products to support sustainable farming practices, and the expansion of its submerged microbial fermentation capacity aligns with this goal. AgriViro is proud to be at the forefront of the advancement of sustainable pest management practices and looks forward to continuing to innovate and provide high-quality, environmentally-friendly solutions for its customers.
25 May 2023
FAQ
Why is there demand for alternatives to chemical pesticides?
The global demand for safe and environmentally sustainable agricultural products has been growing rapidly in recent years. With the increasing awareness of the health and environmental risks associated with toxic pesticides, many governments worldwide have imposed strict regulations on their use. This trend and growing consumer demand for safe and healthy foods has created a significant opportunity for biopesticides, which are eco-friendly and safe alternatives to traditional chemical pesticides. With is microbial biopesticide portfolio, AgriViro is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for eco-friendly biopesticides.
What are biopesticides?
Biopesticides are a type of pesticide that are derived from natural materials such as plants, bacteria, fungi, or other organisms. They are used to control pests, including insects, weeds, and diseases, in agriculture, forestry, and public health.
Biopesticides work by exploiting natural mechanisms and interactions between the pest and its environment, such as disrupting the pest’s life cycle or feeding behaviour, or by directly suppressing the pest population. They are less harmful to non-target organisms, such as humans, wildlife, and beneficial insects, compared to conventional chemical pesticides.
Biopesticides can be classified into three main categories:
- Microbial biopesticides: These are derived from microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa. They can control pests by infecting them with a pathogen, producing toxic metabolites, or stimulating the plant’s natural defence mechanisms.
- Plant-Incorporated Protectants (PIPs): These are substances that plants produce from genetic modifications that make them less susceptible to pests or diseases. For example, genetically modified crops that produce Bacillus thuringiensis toxins to control insect pests.
- Biochemical biopesticides: These are naturally occurring substances, such as plant extracts or pheromones, that control pests by interfering with their behaviour or physiology.
Biopesticides are a valuable tool in integrated pest management (IPM) programs, which aim to reduce the reliance on chemical pesticides and promote sustainable agriculture practices.
Are microbial biopesticides safe to use?
Microbial biopesticides offer several positive safety aspects, including:
- Reduced risk to non-target organisms: Microbial biopesticides are often more selective in their mode of action, meaning they target specific pests without harming other organisms in the environment. This can reduce the risk of harm to beneficial insects, wildlife, and humans.
- Shorter persistence in the environment: Microbial biopesticides tend to break down more quickly in the environment compared to conventional chemical pesticides. This can reduce the risk of long-term environmental contamination and exposure to non-target organisms.
- Low risk of developing resistance: Microbial biopesticides are often based on living organisms, which makes it more difficult for pests to develop resistance. This means that microbial biopesticides can be used as part of a sustainable pest management program to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides.
- Low or no risk of residue build up: Microbial biopesticides do not leave behind persistent residues that can accumulate in the environment or on crops. This reduces the risk of exposure to humans or animals who may come into contact with the residues.
Overall, microbial biopesticides offer several positive safety aspects that make them a useful tool for managing pests while minimizing risks to non-target organisms and the environment.
