Bayer CropScience and Koppert in biological fungicide agreement

Bayer CropScience has reached an agreement with Koppert Biological Systems, the Netherlands, to grant exclusive worldwide rights on the marketing, registration and production of the new product Shemer, a biological fungicidal product based on the yeast strain Metschnikowia fructicola. Shemer is an antagonist that protects fruit and vegetables against diseases caused by fungal pathogens. It also supplements and complements pre-harvest and/or post-harvest applications and is ideal for use as a part of resistance management and IPM (Integrated Pest Management) programmes. Financial details were not disclosed.

Frank Terhorst, Head of Fruits & Vegetables and Insecticides at Bayer CropScience: “By reaching this agreement, we are convinced that we have chosen the right partner to finalize the development of Shemer and to exploit the full market potential of this promising biological fungicide in pre-harvest and post-harvest applications."

Henri Oosthoek, Koppert’s director of global marketing and sales: “The acquisition of this product fits in well with our strategy of broadening our product portfolio and developing new markets. Shemer will add value for growers in established markets such as protected vegetables and ornamentals and will create opportunities to enter the new markets currently in development, including fruit crops and grapes. It will strengthen our position within the growing industry of biocontrol agents. It expands our microbial ambitions for sustainable crop protection.”