Corteva Agriscience, the world's leading technology company, has launched Zorvec Encantia, a new fungicide that specifically targets late blight, a harmful pathogen that is currently threatening local potato growth.The solution, which is based on Zorvec active, is the first member of a new class of fungicides that effectively uses a novel biochemical mode of action and has no cross-resistance with existing fungicides.
"Zorvec Encantia is here to change everything in terms of effectiveness, protection, and productivity, and will be an invaluable ally to South Africa's potato producers at all stages of cultivation and in difficult climatic conditions."
"After more than a decade of research, we have developed a novel chemical with unrivalled consistency and control, particularly in management, allowing for lower operational costs and overall improved efficiency," said Stephan Marais, Product Manager at Corteva Agriscience.
Zorvec Encantia has multiple effects on a pathogen's life cycle, resulting in improved efficacy and duration of control. It also protects leaves as they grow and expand, enhancing the protection of new foliage even if it has not been treated. The product also has a high tolerance to wash off by rain or irrigation water, which reduces the need for re-sprays and unscheduled applications.
Potatoes generate approximately R8 billion in the primary sector or direct production, and an additional R25 billion in the secondary or manufacturing sector, according to industry body Potatoes SA.
"With potato consumption doubling between 2011 and 2021, and the vegetable's significant impact on the country's GDP, food security, and livelihoods, innovative crop protection technologies are critical to the sector's long-term sustainability – particularly in light of climate change, extreme weather conditions, and rising input costs," said Unathi Mhlatyana, Managing Director, McCain Foods South Africa.
The product, which is now on the market, has a favourable environmental profile, is effective on target organisms at very low use rates, and has no negative effects on beneficial species.
The potato industry in South Africa adds significant nutritional and economic value, accounting for 45 percent of all vegetables grown, with an average of 51 000 ha planted each year. Across the country, the industry employs approximately 60 000 farmworkers. Furthermore, informal traders purchase nearly 66 percent of all potatoes purchased at local fresh produce markets, creating even more job opportunities.
