Bayer will introduce the first biocide for field crops that can effectively control coleopterans

Recently, Bayer announced that it has signed an agreement with AlphaBio Control, a UK company, resulting in the exclusive licensing of a new biocide. The new product will initially be used on field crops, including canola and cereals. Once the insecticide is approved for registration, Bayer hopes to launch it for the first time in 2028.

The new insecticide was discovered by AlphaBio, with which Bayer previously worked to develop FLiPPER® (47.8% fatty acid C7 ~ C20 EW), an award-winning biocide. FLiPPER® Broad spectrum, with contact action, registered for strawberry, tomato, cucumber and other crops, control whitefly, aphids, two-spotted leaf mites and other pests and harmful mites.

Benoit Hartmann, Head of Biologics at Bayer Cropscience, said: "Farmers need innovative new solutions to feed a growing population, cope with the impacts of climate change and meet higher safety and sustainability standards. Biocontrol is the perfect solution for us to expand regenerative agriculture, and we are excited to offer farmers a new bioprotection option for field crops."

This new biological insecticide can effectively control coleopterans, such as cabbage hopping beetle (CSFB). The pest can harm rape crops throughout the growing season and even cause seedling death. The beetle, which is widespread across the UK and much of Europe, feeds on crops as adults, causing damage that increases' bullet hole 'symptoms, affecting seedlings and early leaves, leading to sluggish growth and poor health.

”Marta Ruiz, General manager of AlphaBio Control, said: "We are pleased to license our latest biocide exclusively to Bayer, which will significantly increase the options available to farmers looking to reduce their environmental impact in food production."

High-value vegetables and horticultural crops have many biologics to choose from, the cost of which can be offset by high prices supported by consumers, while field crops require cost-effective solutions suitable for large-scale use to enhance the market competitiveness of agricultural products. Bayer's systematic approach combines multiple solutions, including integrated pest management measures supported by digital technology, to maximize the cost-effectiveness of this new product.

Ralf Glaubitz, Head of Seed Health and Biologics Global asset Management at Bayer Cropscience, said: "With the increasing demand of farmers and the changing consumption habits of consumers, we see the growth potential of such biological plant protection solutions. Only by innovating to address the challenges farmers face in all areas can we help the company reach its target of more than €1.5 billion in biologics sales by 2035."

The development and marketing of Bayer's licensed biocide, which has yet to be named, will also help the company meet its commitment to reduce the environmental impact of pesticides by 30 percent by 2030 without affecting crop yields and health