BASF expands its biological portfolio with the introduction of seaweed biostimulants from Acadian Plant Health

BASF has expanded its biological solutions offering with the introduction of seaweed biostimulants from Acadian Plant Health, a leading marine plant harvesting, cultivation and ingredient extraction company based in Dartmouth, Canada.

Through the agreement with Acadian, BASF will complement its biological portfolio with the company’s novel biostimulant technology, expand its product offering in new markets and increase solutions for growing premium crops.

Biostimulants are microorganisms/substances that, when applied to plants or the surrounding soil, promote crop growth, improve stress tolerance and increase yields. They are complementary tools to conventional agriculture and help growers meet food retailers’ demand for premium produce.

Ascophyllum nodosum is a seaweed that grows in the extreme conditions of the tidal zone of the North Atlantic. As a biostimulant, it is rich in bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides, mannitol and betaine.

"These compounds work together to improve plant tolerance to adverse growing conditions, including but not limited to heat and drought. At Arcadia, we carefully identify, isolate and formulate the most effective ingredients to provide unparalleled protection and resilience to crops," said Nelson Gibson, president of Acadian. "Our goal is to create solutions that drive greater economic well-being for farmers while ensuring environmental sustainability."

“BASF combines the best of products, technologies and services to positively transform agriculture, optimize food systems and create social well-being. By pooling our expertise and resources, we can make a meaningful difference and improve agricultural productivity and sustainability,” said Marko Grozdanovic, Senior Vice President, Global Marketing, Agricultural Solutions, BASF.

BASF currently sells these products in multiple countries in Europe and China and is exploring opportunities to bring them to customers in other regions and countries.