COS-OGA
Fytofend research: advancing Biocontrol with COS-OGA technology
Fytofend is at the forefront of biocontrol innovation, leading groundbreaking research on COS-OGA, a patented elicitor that strengthens plant immunity against fungal diseases like powdery mildew and downy mildew. By leveraging the latest advancements in plant science, Fytofend continuously enhances the effectiveness of biocontrol solutions, providing farmers with sustainable, high-performance alternatives to chemical treatments. This approach supports a transition towards biological fungicide alternatives, reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides while maintaining optimal crop health.
In 2009, founded by Pierre Van Cutsem and Raffael Buonatesta, Fytofend has developed and refined COS-OGA-based solutions to meet the growing demand for natural disease control methods. The company is not only responsible for producing COS-OGA, a leading plant defence inducer, but also plays a pivotal role in researching its extended applications across different agricultural systems.
Through years of rigorous scientific trials and partnerships with agronomic institutions, Fytofend has solidified its reputation as a key player in the field of biological plant protection.
One of the most successful applications of COS-OGA is Fytosave, Fytofend’s flagship biocontrol product, which has been developed to offer an efficient and sustainable alternative to synthetic fungicides. Fytosave is widely used in viticulture and horticulture, demonstrating high efficacy in controlling powdery mildew and downy mildew while being fully compliant with organic farming standards. As a plant defence inducer, Fytosave reinforces natural crop resilience while ensuring zero residues and full market compliance.
By integrating COS-OGA technology into commercial farming, Fytofend ensures that growers benefit from a proven, residue-free biocontrol solution that aligns with the principles of integrated pest management (IPM). Its innovations continue to pave the way for a more sustainable future in agriculture, helping farmers reduce reliance on chemical pesticides while maintaining high productivity and crop quality.
What is COS-OGA?
A breakthrough in Biocontrol
COS-OGA is a unique oligosaccharide-based elicitor composed of chitosan oligomers (COS) and oligogalacturonides (OGA). This innovative molecule was developed and patented by Professor Pierre Van Cutsem at the University of Namur, and Fytofend holds the exclusive rights for its commercialization in crop protection.
What sets COS-OGA apart from other plant defence inducers is its dual-action mechanism, which not only enhances the plant’s immune system but also improves physiological functions, such as nutrient absorption, stress tolerance, and overall plant vigor. Extensive research has demonstrated that this elicitor activates key defensive pathways, leading to an increased production of secondary metabolites, antimicrobial compounds, and structural fortifications, such as lignification of plant cell wall.
The scientific validation of COS-OGA has led to its integration into diverse agricultural systems worldwide. It has been tested and proven effective across a wide range of crops, climates, and pathogen pressures, making it a reliable solution for both conventional and organic farming. Researchers continue to explore its potential applications in horticulture, viticulture, and cereal production, with promising results indicating broader protection against fungal and bacterial diseases beyond powdery and downy mildew.
The main COS-OGA-based product developed by Fytofend is Fytosave, a residue-free biocontrol solution that effectively manages powdery mildew and improves overall plant health. Used in vineyards, vegetable crops, and fruit production, Fytosave is a key tool in modern sustainable agriculture.
Fytofend remains committed to optimizing the formulation and field efficiency of COS-OGA, ensuring that farmers and distributors benefit from a stable, easy-to-use product with high efficacy and sustainability. With continued investment in research and innovation, COS-OGA stands as a pillar of next-generation plant protection, reducing dependence on chemical fungicides while securing high agricultural yields.
How does COS-OGA work?
Unlike traditional fungicides, COS-OGA does not kill pathogens directly. Instead, it stimulates the plant’s innate immune system, mainly triggering Systemic Acquired Resistance (SAR) pathway. This response strengthens cell walls, enhances the production of antimicrobial compounds, and improves overall crop resilience against fungal infections.
The active substance COS-OGA in Fytosave enhances plant health by improving natural defences while preventing disease spread. As a foliar-applied biocontrol solution, Fytosave ensures high performance in real-world farming conditions, making it a preferred choice among organic and conventional growers alike.
Why choose COS-OGA based solutions from Fytofend?
Proven Efficacy: Field studies confirm COS-OGA’s effectiveness against powdery mildew and some downy mildews across multiple crops, including vineyards, vegetables, and fruits.
100% Natural & Residue-Free: Compliant with organic farming regulations, leaving no chemical residues (Zero MRL).
Resistance Management: Unlike synthetic fungicides, COS-OGA is not affected by resistance development, making it a sustainable long-term solution.
Safe & Environmentally Friendly: Non-toxic, biodegradable, and harmless to beneficial insects and pollinators.
Compatible with IPM Programs: Can be integrated with existing crop protection strategies, reducing reliance on synthetic chemicals.
Used in Fytosave: Fytosave, based on COS-OGA, is the leading biocontrol solution developed by Fytofend for modern agriculture.
Fytofend: the global leader in COS-OGA Biocontrol solutions
Our research team, led by Pierre Van Cutsem, continues to innovate and expand the applications of COS-OGA technology. As the exclusive producer and distributor of COS-OGA-based biocontrol products, Fytofend provides farmers with practical, science-backed solutions that support sustainable agriculture.
The active COS-OGA ingredient in Fytosave enhances plant health by improving natural defenses while preventing disease spread. As a foliar-applied biocontrol solution, Fytosave ensures high performance in real-world farming conditions, making it a preferred choice among organic and conventional growers alike. In addition to Fytosave, Fytofend has developed Fytosol, a biostimulant designed to strengthen plant resilience and optimize growth conditions, further supporting sustainable farming practices.
Are you looking for a proven biocontrol solution that ensures high disease resistance, zero residues, and optimal crop protection?
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