The Science behind it
Our world-class R&D team has modified and manufactured naturally occurring peptides with insecticidal properties based on the venom of spiders and other venomous animals. The result is highly targeted and effective insecticides.
These peptides are fully biodegradable as the product breaks down into amino acids after use, essentially becoming a nutrient source for soil microorganisms. Because these peptides are highly specific to the target pest, they are safe for farm workers and the environment. They have a 4-Hour re-entry interval (REI), 0-Day preharvest interval (PHI), and MRL exemption, with a soft profile on pollinators and beneficials.
Harnessing natural peptides does something else: it creates new, unique insecticide solutions that are not cross-resistant with traditional synthetic chemistries. These products provide a new IRM tool while protecting crop quality and yields.
How do peptides work
1
What are Vestaron peptides?
A peptide is a small protein made up of amino acids.
Venom found in select species contains peptides that affect the proven insecticidal receptors of target pest insects.
Vestaron identified its first commercial peptide from a spider responsible for targeting insect pests but with no impact on other animals.
2
How do they work?
Peptides are larger molecules compared to traditional small-molecule synthetic chemicals, providing specificity to affect only the target insect pests.
As a result, peptides are environmentally friendly, benefiting workers and biodiversity, including bees, in the ecosystem.
Vestaron insecticides offer the efficacy of synthetics combined with the safety and sustainability of biologicals.
3
How are products made?
Potency and selective targeting are optimized within the active peptide and then replicated via fermentation with a proprietary food-grade yeast. The yeast cells are filtered out, leaving only the peptide to concentrate for processing and product formulation.
Product is produced at scale and distributed to retailers and then out to farms.
4
What are the benefits?
With no known resistance or cross-resistance, it is a powerful new crop protection tool for farmers.
Peptides break down into naturally occurring amino acids, leaving no residue in soil and water.
5
Are future products planned?
Vestaron’s world-class R&D capabilities are at the heart of it all – our team of researchers and field development specialists have a robust pipeline of novel insecticides and fungicides solutions coming to farmers around the world.
Explore our crop protection products
In the Field
More PCAs and growers
are discovering the power of the Vestaron portfolio – backed by hands-on sales, service, and support.
European expansion underway
Approved for emergency use authorization on tomatoes.
Growing use footprint:
~11%
market share in pistachios
~6%
in almonds
~4%
in brassicas