A novel biosolution that efficiently improves the plant uptake and usage of phosphorus to increase crop health and output in potatoes, maize, rice, pulses, and a variety of vegetables using in-furrow, seedling drench, or drip irrigation application at the time of seeding was launched recently.

ZOATIN by UPL is the first product to be released as part of the company’s collaboration with Chr. Hansen, a global bioscience business, developed microbial biosolution that would aid growers in combating pests and illnesses while also improving crop quality and yields over time.

This innovative solution is a bacterial-based technology that works by solubilizing otherwise unavailable types of phosphorous in the soil, allowing crops to better absorb and use the mineral for increased production and crop health. Extensive trials have revealed that this novel product contributes directly to healthy root development and better crop resilience against biotic and abiotic challenges including drought, as well as increased water usage efficiency. It can be integrated with other crop solutions for improved crop yield, quality, and grower profitability.

“We’re proud to collaborate with the innovative team at Chr. Hansen to introduce the first product of this strategic partnership as part of our OpenAg purpose. ZOATIN has proven to effectively grow healthier crops; it also provides environmental benefits by ensuring phosphate fertilizers are used more efficiently by crops, thus reducing nutrient waste. This can help to reduce the adverse impacts that phosphate fertilizers can have on water sources,” Mike Frank, president, and COO at UPL said.

Kim Müller Christensen, SVP Animal and Plant Health and Nutrition at Chr. Hansen added that since Chr. Hansen and UPL announced a strategic collaboration, the teams have been working on bringing more sustainable solutions to farmers globally.

“The launch of ZOATIN in India is the first output of this collaboration, in which we are building a strong portfolio within biopesticides, biostimulants, and bionutritionals,” Christensen mentioned.

The collaboration between UPL and Chr. Hansen was first announced in October 2021. Through the partnership, UPL is using its global presence to undertake research and identify opportunities and product concepts to address farmers’ needs. From these insights, Chr. Hansen is designing biological products based on their microbial capabilities that UPL will register and commercialize via its extensive global distribution network.