Bayer Enters Exclusive Agreement with AlphaBio Control to Introduce Groundbreaking Bioinsecticide for Arable Crops
Bayer has revealed its recent collaboration with UK-based AlphaBio Control, securing an exclusive license for a pioneering biological insecticide. This innovative product marks the first of its kind tailored specifically for arable crops, including oilseed rape and cereals. Scheduled for its initial release in 2028, pending further refinement and regulatory approvals, this bioinsecticide was originally developed by AlphaBio, a company already partnered with Bayer for the distribution of FLiPPER®, an acclaimed bioinsecticide-acaricide.
Benoit Hartmann, Head of Biologics at Bayer’s Crop Science Division, emphasized the crucial need for novel solutions to sustainably address the challenges faced by farmers amid climate change and evolving safety standards. He stated, “Biocontrols perfectly align with our commitment to advancing regenerative agriculture, and we are eager to introduce a new biological crop protection alternative for arable crops.”
The forthcoming bioinsecticide exhibits promising efficacy against coleoptera insects such as the cabbage stem flea beetle (CSFB), a notorious pest capable of causing substantial damage to oilseed rape crops throughout their growth cycle, including seedling mortality. This beetle inflicts widespread harm in the UK and across Europe, manifesting as ‘shot-holing’ symptoms that hinder young plant development and compromise overall crop health.
Marta Ruiz, General Manager for AlphaBio Control, expressed enthusiasm for granting Bayer exclusive rights to their latest bioinsecticide, emphasizing its potential to significantly enhance environmental sustainability in food production for arable farmers.
While existing biological solutions predominantly cater to high-value vegetable and horticulture crops, where consumer-driven price premiums can offset costs, arable crops demand cost-effective solutions at a larger scale to remain competitive. Bayer’s integrated approach, leveraging digital support for pest management systems, aims to optimize cost efficiencies of the new product.
Ralf Glaubitz, Head of Global Asset Management for Seed Growth & Biologics at Bayer’s Crop Science Division, highlighted the burgeoning demand for biological crop protection solutions, underscoring Bayer’s commitment to surpassing market expectations and achieving over 1.5 billion euros in biological sales by 2035 through innovative problem-solving.
The bioinsecticide, yet to be named, aligns with Bayer’s pledge to reduce the environmental footprint of crop protection products by 30% by 2030, without compromising crop yield or health. It represents a pivotal step towards sustainable agriculture practices and underscores Bayer’s dedication to driving positive change within the industry.
