Welcome to the Fytofend FAQ hub
Here you’ll find clear, concise answers to the most frequently asked questions about our biosolutions and their application across a variety of crops.
Through short explanatory videos and practical resources, we aim to guide you step by step — whether you’re a grower, technician, or simply curious about sustainable plant protection.
This page is designed to help you better understand how Fytofend works, how our products support plant immunity, and how to use them effectively in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions about COS-OGA and Fytofend biosolutions
Find answers to the most common questions about COS-OGA, how it works, and how to use our products in the field. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Reach out to us at support@fytofend.com.
COS-OGA is a patented active substance developed by Fytofend and the University of Namur. It is a complex of natural oligosaccharides, combining chito-oligosaccharides (COS) and oligogalacturonides (OGA), two molecules derived respectively from chitosan and pectin. COS-OGA is recognized as the first low-risk active substance approved by the European Union in the field of crop protection.
Unlike a conventional fungicide, COS-OGA does not target the pathogen directly. It acts as an elicitor: it stimulates plant receptors and triggers the plant’s own natural defense mechanisms, a phenomenon known as systemic acquired resistance (SAR). The plant then reinforces its cell walls, produces antimicrobial compounds, and enters a heightened state of alertness against fungal diseases.
The risk is very low. Because COS-OGA does not target the pathogen directly but instead reinforces the plant’s own defenses, it does not exert selection pressure on pathogens, unlike fungicides with a single mode of action. This is a significant advantage for resistance management strategies.
Yes. COS-OGA-based solutions such as FytoSave are authorized for use in organic farming at the European level. They also fit within integrated pest management (IPM) strategies and zero-residue programs, leaving no MRL (maximum residue limit) on the harvest.
The Fytofend portfolio covers several crops and use cases: FytoSave targets powdery mildew and downy mildew on grapevines, vegetables and soft fruits; Fytosol protects potatoes against late blight; Fyto-6 and Fyto-8 are foliar biostimulants that boost crop vigor and productivity; Algi-up improves plant tolerance to heat and water stress, particularly on cereals and legumes.
FytoSave is a preventive product. It is recommended to apply it 2 to 3 times before disease symptoms appear, in particular before and after flowering on grapevines, to prepare the plant ahead of periods of high disease pressure.
COS-OGA is derived from two natural molecules, chitosan and pectin, which are commonly found in the human diet. It is not classified as ecotoxic and does not generate measurable residues on harvested crops, making it well suited to regulatory requirements and consumer expectations for residue-free food.
Fytofend biosolutions are distributed in more than 30 countries through a network of approved agricultural partners. Visit our Distributors page to find the contact closest to your farm.
Didn’t find the answer to your question? Contact us at support@fytofend.com.
The Science Behind It
Learn more about the principles of plant immunity, the role of COS-OGA, and how elicitors activate natural defense mechanisms.
Common Questions
From formulation details to certifications — we answer the most frequent questions with clarity.
If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to send them to support@fytofend.com