Scientists Develop an Eco-Friendly Bioinsecticide Based on Bitter Compounds from Chicory

Researchers from Belgium and the Netherlands are working on creating a biological insecticide made from natural bitter components found in the plants and roots of chicory. The scientists aim to find an ecological alternative to synthetic insecticides by utilizing the properties of chicory that naturally protect plants from pests and diseases.

This is reported by AgroReview

Features of Sesquiterpene Lactones and Their Role in Plant Protection

It is known that chicory synthesizes bitter substances, known as sesquiterpene lactones, which effectively repel pest insects. As noted by Willem Desmedt, a representative of the Flemish Institute for Agriculture and Fisheries Research, these substances can be economically extracted from the roots of the plant, opening up prospects for their widespread use in agriculture.

Aims and Stages of the Sesquichic Project

Within the framework of the four-year Sesquichic project, scientists plan to isolate the bitter components, investigate their effectiveness in various concentrations and conditions, and determine optimal methods for mass production of the new bioinsecticide. The team pays special attention to the principles of circular economy, aiming to utilize chicory production waste to obtain valuable substances for plant protection.

“Circularity is important: the current waste from chicory production can become a source of valuable components for plant protection,” added project coordinator Katrin Van Laere.

The international consortium implementing the initiative includes the Flemish Institute for Agriculture and Fisheries Research, Ghent University, and Wageningen University. Participants combine knowledge in the fields of chemical analysis of plants, genetics, and research on bitter substances. Additionally, chicory businesses and producers are involved, which will allow for the rapid implementation of research results into practice.