Certis USA to launch new biofungicide formulation

Certis USA L.L.C. has entered into an agreement with Kaken Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. of Tokyo, Japan, to introduce a new polyoxin D zinc salt formulation to the U.S. market under two trade names: "Tavano 5%SC Fungicide" for use on grapes and small fruits including strawberries, and "OSO 5%SC Fungicide" for use on citrus, cucurbits, fruiting and leafy vegetables, potatoes and numerous other crops.

Polyoxin D zinc salt was first registered for food use in the U.S. in late 2008. The U.S. EPA has recently expanded the tolerance exemption to include polyoxin D zinc salt residues in/on all food commodities. The U.S. EPA also approved the registration of a new 5% Suspension Concentrate (5%SC) formulation.

Polyoxin D zinc salt is a novel, broad spectrum fungicide with proven efficacy against Alternaria leaf blight and early blight, Botrytis, powdery mildew and other diseases on grapes, strawberries, cucurbits, fruiting and leafy vegetables, potatoes, citrus and other crops. Polyoxin D zinc salt is derived through the fermentation of a naturally occurring microbe, Streptomyces cacaoi var. asoensis, which was isolated from soil in Japan. The biochemical active ingredient controls pathogenic plant fungi by inhibiting the formation of chitin, a vital component of fungal cell walls. This unique, non-toxic mode of action [Fungicide Resistance Action Committee (FRAC) Code 19] makes polyoxin D zinc salt ideal for use in rotation with other fungicides for resistance management within Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs.

Certis USA Executive V.P. NAFTA Tim Damico said, “Certis USA is excited to work with Kaken to bring this new 5%SC formulation to U.S. growers. Polyoxin D zinc salt’s unique mode of action provides a new disease control tool for fruit and vegetable growers. This 5%SC is a new and easy-to-use formulation.

“The EPA’s expanded tolerance exemption facilitates the development of the new formulation for use on all crops. In addition, the pending petition to the National Organic Program, if approved, will facilitate the use of polyoxin D zinc salt in organic food crop production,” Damico said.

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