Key Takeaways
- Biotalys and AgroFresh Solutions team up to develop sustainable biological fungicides to combat food waste.
- Approximately 14% of produce is lost from harvest to retail, mainly due to spoilage.
- The collaboration aims to enhance the freshness of high-value crops while reducing post-harvest losses.
Biotalys, an AgTech company focused on protein-based biocontrol solutions, and AgroFresh Solutions, known for its post-harvest technologies, have formed a partnership aimed at developing biological fungicides to tackle food waste. An estimated 14% of produce is lost globally during the journey from harvest to retail, with spoilage from mold and rot being significant contributors.
Clint Lewis, CEO of AgroFresh, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, particularly for high-value, perishable crops. Even minor losses can lead to substantial food waste and economic repercussions. The partnership seeks to introduce innovative, sustainable fungicide solutions that enhance produce freshness and contribute to reducing waste throughout the supply chain.
Fungal decay poses a major challenge post-harvest as fresh produce becomes vulnerable once harvested. Spoilage caused by fungi can spread rapidly in storage and transportation, necessitating effective disease management. Given the increasing demands of global supply chains, biological solutions that support freshness and minimize loss are becoming critical.
According to Kevin Helash, CEO of Biotalys, the post-harvest fungicide market is estimated at $300 million. The collaboration represents a significant opportunity for Biotalys to leverage its AGROBODY™ platform, which aims to enhance food quality preservation. By partnering with AgroFresh, a recognized leader in post-harvest food quality control, Biotalys aims to make a substantial impact on reducing food waste through innovative biocontrol solutions.
The joint efforts of AgroFresh and Biotalys represent a forward-thinking approach to addressing the challenges faced by the fresh produce industry. By merging their expertise in produce preservation and cutting-edge biocontrol technologies, the companies hope to fulfill current market demands while adhering to sustainable practices that extend the shelf life of food products, ultimately contributing to a reduction in global food waste.
This collaboration exemplifies a strategic response to an urgent global issue, reflecting the importance of innovation in the agricultural sector to ensure food sustainability and quality.
*Source: FAO report 29 September 2022 – Tackling food loss and waste: a triple win opportunity; 2023 DunhamTrimmer Global Biocontrol Market Report.*
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