SpeedAgro launches new generation of adjuvants that utilizes RNA technology in Argentina

Argentinian adjuvant company SpeedAgro announced a partnership with Apollo Biotech to develop products that combine ribonucleic acid (RNA) technology and adjuvant technology. According to the manufacturer, the use of RNA assists the defenses of plants against pathogens and reduces dependence on agrochemical products. "It is a very disruptive international megaproject being conducted from Argentina," Víctor Escalas, President of SpeedAgro, said, stressing that it is a new concept.

SpeedAgro has been conducting research for many years in collaboration with the Argentinian Conicet (National Scientific and Technical Research Council) to ensure that the RNA technology can last for two years with a stabilizer in its formulation. The company is also advancing in the development of a special vehicle for product application. According to the company, the product will initially be introduced in fungicides and insecticides, with herbicides being incorporated in the second stage.

The research process has already passed the laboratory phase, and field tests began in January 2024, with some 60 annual tests over a period of two to three years being carried out. The project involves an initial investment of US$10 million in its first stage, but this could reach some US$50 million. Furthermore, the Laboratory of Good Laboratory Practices has received an investment that will enable it to award international certification for all studies, which is in the approval process. Around US$15 million will also be invested in an indoor greenhouse with technology coming from the United States, which will streamline timelines and tests under different controlled environments.

"The company seeks a circular economy, 360 degrees, that will allow us to provide comprehensive solutions for the environment," Escalas said, highlighting SpeedAgro’s intention to lead a global food market. "It has already been discovered some time ago that yellow pea does not produce allergens, and the protein isolate will create tolerable food for all human beings,″ he added.

"Engineering works are being done to bring water from the Coronda River and establish an effluent station with technology that allows the recovery of 75 percent of the water used. This will allow us to certify international regulations," Escalas further said. 

The technology to be installed, which is of Chinese origin, will generate 85% isolated protein.

On the other hand, the plant will help the recovery of yellow pea cultivation in the country, covering an area between 1 million and 1.5 million hectares. The company will, therefore, offer a complete package, including seeds and products approved by European regulators.

"They are organic and will be provided by SpeedAgro, together with a Swedish company, allowing us to have a final product that meets the most demanding requirements in the world," Escalas added. 

"We are present in 12 countries, and the goal for 2024 is to work hard to spread from Spain to the whole of Europe. We are working on the opportunity to open in Canada, and therefore, we are advancing the company to practically the entire world," he said in conclusion.

(Editing by Leonardo Gottems, reporter for AgroPages)

6th Biopesticides, Biostimulants and Biofertilizers Summit (BioEx 2025) BioEx 2025 is now in preparation, and you are welcome to consult and collaborate with us!  Submit speech abstract  |  Become a sponsor  |  Become an exhibitor  |    Previous BioEx   Contact: Christina Xie Email: christina@agropages.com Mobile (WeChat/WhatsApp): +86 18806513367