Growing Roots, Shoots, and Fruits – Expanding Portfolios of Biorational Pesticides for Organic and Conventional Crop Producers

Across the world, there is a growing interest in sustainable food production. This awareness about the importance of environmental stewardship shows that people are ready to be reacquainted with the plants, animals, and land that produce our food. The time seems right to increase the adoption of biorational pesticides & biopesticides (BPB) in all segments of agriculture. Showcasing the excellent research on IPM solutions based on BPB to replace or complement conventional chemicals is one way to do this. Fruits and vegetables form the cornerstone of a healthy diet and we can do more to show the public how horticulture benefits society.

It is important to remember that BPB may require special considerations in their development and commercial use. Product shelf life can be considerably shorter than with conventional pesticides. Product application timing is strongly linked to efficacy. Sometimes biopesticides cannot on their own provide complete control of pathogens or insects, but are highly effective when used along with other products. Biopesticides in general, and particularly microbial products, have important nuances. First in the research phase, and later when they are used by growers (stored, prepared, tank-mixed, and applied).

Major grocery chains are regulating pesticide use on produce while also demanding larger and larger quantities of certified organic fruits and vegetables. Recently some of the biggest food companies announced that they are recreating food recipes in response to consumer demands for natural ingredients. For example, Kraft Foods will soon replace all artificial colorants in its iconic macaroni and cheese with turmeric, paprika, and annatto. Think of how the demand for these three horticultural crops could increase. Nestle Foods intends to stop using synthetic vanillin and start using natural vanilla in some or all of its candy. Scientists like us need to help producers and consumers alike by researching the most effective crop production strategies.