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 its 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, part of Fytofend's wider range of biosolutions, 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.

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 the 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.