Oxfordshire’s Eden Research has biofungicide approved for use in California
Eden Research has received regulatory approval in the state of California for Mevalone, a more environmentally friendly alternative to existing pesticides.
Headquartered at Milton Park near Didcot, the firm develops sustainable biopesticides and plastic-free formulation technology.
Mevalone, a foliar biofungicide initially designed to target botrytis on grapes, is an ideal product for the Californian market – home to large wine-producing regions like Napa Valley and dominated by high-value horticultural crops.
With an increasing number of conventional chemical pesticide products banned over recent years, Mevalone has become an increasingly popular option among farmers.
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It’s based on naturally occurring substances without compromising efficacy, yield or production costs.
Sean Smith, CEO of Eden Research, said: “This development represents another step in Eden’s expansion into the United States, the world’s second largest food market.
“As a small, innovative British business, we’re proud of the impact that Eden can have on the global stage.
“Our pioneering products and technologies are receiving regulatory approval and being distributed by our partners across Europe, Africa and now North America, accelerating the adoption of more sustainable practices in agriculture globally.”
Key to this global expansion has been Eden’s partnership with Sipcam Oxon Group, which is now preparing to bring Mevalone to California under Sipcam Agro USA and its CEO Brent Marek.
Brent added: “Mevalone is a highly effective, sustainable biofungicide. It provides the perfect natural solution for farmers in California adopting more sustainable growing practices.
“Sipcam Oxon SpA has enjoyed several years of success with Mevalone in key European countries such as Italy and Spain.
“We look forward to working with the Eden team to bring this product to California, which is a significant addressable market in the US.”
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