In Europe, a lot of factors have an influence on growing and storing cereals. It is important to produce food and feed, and to save it for future consumption. Without appropriate reserves, hunger becomes a likely factor. Furthermore, the average post-harvest loss in Europe is 10 to 30 %. The challenge is how to decrease these losses before and during storage. European institutes confirm that pest infestations in stored grains can cause enormous economic losses.
Today, there are already a limited number of Post-Harvest insecticides authorised for grain protection. During the upcoming renewal of these products under the Plant Protection Regulation, it may happen that some will fall out for good. Besides, fumigants and remaining insecticides show strong and growing signs of resistance. The widespread use of these chemical-based insecticides cannot easily be replaced, and alternative technologies don’t show sufficient results as of today. Consequently, proper rotation of insecticides becomes a serious issue.
It is of utmost importance to apply proper insect management techniques with the aim to prevent the emergence of insect infestations while avoiding pest resistance. Further research is needed on new substances and alternative technologies in order to obtain more effective and less hazardous formulations.
Given the favourable toxicological profile of the novIGRain product, it has improved health safety characteristics, which is essential for product users and grain consumers. Moreover, as it shows reduced hazardous residues, it is expected to have good MRL values. Besides, the product has no smell, and therefore is convenient in usage. The carrier oil will also be of a natural and renewable origin.
As it will be applied as a ULV, the product will be highly effective, resulting in reduced amounts of insecticidal usage, which in turn induces lower transported volumes. Finally, it would represent economic benefits for the EU, as there are lower export restrictions given the product’s characteristics as well as a formulation which is 100% made in the EU.
The first objective is the development of a novel Grain Protection Product (larvicide) and the assessment of its compliance within the legal framework. The second objective is the development of an innovative ULV application technique that should allow the simultaneous application of single and/or multiple PPPs without interference. The third objective is the development of a “decision supporting tool” on grain storage management, including the assessment of resistance to active substances for grain storage. Finally, the fourth objective is to raise awareness within the sector / stakeholders on the importance of resistance to the PPP’s and possible grain storage management techniques.
