The technology called Fungi Block was tested by the Agricultural Research Institute (INIA), fulfilling the same effectiveness as commonly used synthetic products.
August 02, 2022 | 16:17 | By Laura Gatica | Portal Pyme
The biotechnology company Plantae Labs developed the first protector against the decay of botanical origin, for post-harvest application of avocados. The product called Fungi Block is applied in the packaging lines, and its ingredients have been classified as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe), an acronym used by United States federal regulatory agencies (FDA), to refer to safe substances that are used as food additives.
In recent years, the high demand in the domestic and export industry for avocados has triggered a significant rise in prices; the situation is also caused by the losses after the infections that attack them. Although these microorganisms have traditionally been controlled by synthetic fungicides, in the world, producers, regulatory agencies, scientific communities, and consumers have expressed an interest in the production and commercialization of fruits free of synthetic fungicide residues.
In this context, Plantae Lab created “Fungi Block”, a product that, according to the startup’s engineer, Sebastián González Amat, “is made up of a mixture derived from plant extracts, totally soluble in water and 100% organic. Which, in addition, incorporates our proprietary NOVADROP™ technology into its formulation, which guarantees an emulsion made up of very small particles, thus increasing its stability and efficacy.”
The plant health expert mentions that there are several diseases caused by fungi in avocados, which are expressed during post-harvest; “Among the most important are Colletotrichum spp. and Botryosphaeria spp., which are usually treated by applying synthetic fungicides during the packing process. However, this type of product presents more and more restrictions, which is why healthier natural alternatives for health and without residues are currently highly valued options”.
About Plantae Labs
It is a Chilean biotechnology company that develops R&D solutions for the replacement of antibiotics and pesticides in animal and plant health. Its formulas combine a wide library of active compounds from endemic plants (including quillaia) with the latest encapsulation and release technologies.
Founded in 2017 by chemical civil engineers from the Catholic University, Juan José Albarrán and Hans Konsens, its mission is to empower farmers to produce more food, naturally and with respect for nature.
Its solutions based on plant extracts are used internationally to combat diseases and improve performance in animals and plants. Currently, they are present in more than 25 countries on five continents with more than 50 clients.
Its veterinary active formulas help replace the use of antibiotics in more than 1 billion animals each year around the world. Likewise, more than 500,000 hectares use Plantae Labs plant active formulas to reduce or replace the use of agrochemicals both in North America and Europe.
