AgBiome Announces Strategic Sale of Biofungicides to Certis Biologicals
AgBiome, Inc., a leader in agricultural innovation and developer of novel biological and trait products from the Earth’s microbial communities, has announced sale of its products to Certis Biologicals. Certis, possessing global expertise, infrastructure and scale in biological crop protection, will provide the products with new opportunities, enabling them to realize fully their transformative potential.
Founded in 2012, AgBiome embarked on a visionary journey to make a real difference in the world and emerge as a leading force in agricultural innovation. Throughout its trajectory, the company has remained steadfast in its mission to revolutionize crop protection, demonstrating that microbial solutions can rival established conventional technologies.
”AgBiome’s products, Howler and Theia fungicides, are the most effective biological fungicides with unique modes of action and efficacy similar to synthetic chemicals but with substantial environmental benefits. We are delighted that a company like Certis Biologicals, with a deep commitment to these products, will steward their future growth and development. More growers than ever will be able to see first hand the benefits of these products,” said Scott Rabe, Head of Product Development.
Howler fungicide, AgBiome’s flagship product, containing the active ingredient Pseudomonas chlororaphis strain AFS009, is a microbial-based, highly effective tool that uses multiple modes of action to provide preventative, long-lasting activity at every phase of production. Demonstrated through extensive field trials, research and grower usage, Howler fungicide provides superior, broad-spectrum control of key soilborne and foliar diseases that impact specialty crops such as apples, grapes, cucurbits, leafy vegetables and more. Howler EVO fungicide provides the same strong performance with lower rates for growers, offering increased convenience.
Theia fungicide is the second proprietary solution from AgBiome, selected from >100,000 microbes using AgBiome’s in-house platform to provide a high level of disease control. Theia protects crops through multiple modes of action by blocking fungal and bacterial pathogens and activating crops’ natural defenses. The biofungicide contains the active ingredient Bacillus subtilis strain AFS032321. Theia provides robust, broad-spectrum protection against a variety of soilborne and foliar diseases in high-value fruits and vegetables.
Both Howler and Theia fungicides are registered in all 50 states and deliver highly effective disease control with ultimate flexibility, including OMRI-list designation, zero-day pre-harvest interval, minimal restricted-entry interval and exemption from U.S. residue tolerances.
Howler and Theia fungicides are poised to enter a new phase of growth and impact. Leveraging Certis’ extensive resources and strategic network, these innovative solutions are primed to make an even greater impact on agricultural practices worldwide. This transition marks a pivotal moment in the journey of these products, unlocking their transformative potential on a broader scale than ever before.
“Howler and Theia complement our existing portfolio of biofungicides, including Double Nickel and our newest product for large-acre crops, Convergence,” said Chris Judd, vice president, North America, Certis Biologicals. “These products will constitute a fungicide portfolio that can provide unmatched control for all growers, from specialty and high-value crops to large-acre commodity crops.”
AgBiome engaged advisors to assist with this transaction, including J.P. Morgan as M&A Financial Advisor, Wyrick, Robbins providing legal counsel, and Alvarez & Marsal serving as financial advisors.
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