From Lab to Field: Overcoming the Barriers Slowing Biological Adoption
11 February 2026 In a recent AgriBusiness Global LIVE! webinar titled “Minding the Biological Gap,” Carlos Ledó Orriach, Founder and CEO of Veganic, and Dr. Willian Batista Silva, Technical Product Development Manager LATAM/CAC, Rainbow Bio, served as two of the panelists, providing insights into current challenges facing the biologicals market and how companies can adapt to face those challenges head on.
In this Q+A segment, they provide answers to attendees’ questions about current barriers to getting the products to market, how companies are working to get the products to growers, and more.
You can access the webinar recording here.
Q: Does classical biological control have a place in large industrial agriculture, or will the gap be filled by next-generation artificial intelligence and chemistry?
Ledó Orriach: Yes, classical biological control absolutely has a place in large-scale agriculture. AI and improved chemistry will complement — not replace — biocontrol. The future will likely be an integrated approach where digital tools guide more precise use of biologicals, making them scalable and reliable for industrial operations.
Batista Silva: It has a place. Classical biological control has been pivotal in pest management since the late 19th century. The introduction of the vedalia beetle to control cottony cushion scale in California is a classic example. This method has proven effective in various contexts, but its application in large-scale industrial agriculture requires adaptation to modern practices.
The integration of AI can revolutionize pest management. For instance, AI-driven platforms can analyze data from drones and satellite imagery to identify pest hotspots and predict outbreaks. This allows for targeted application of biological controls, reducing waste, and enhancing efficacy. For example, the use of AI in monitoring pest populations can lead to timely releases of natural enemies, optimizing their impact.
The sustainability of agricultural practices is increasingly scrutinized. Biological control methods can significantly reduce pesticide use, leading to lower chemical residues in food and water. For instance, studies have shown that integrating biological control with chemical methods can reduce pesticide applications by up to 50%, improving environmental health and biodiversity.
Q: What are your thoughts on regional field projects that test the same biological products across countries under real-world conditions?
LO: These projects are extremely valuable. Multi-country, real-condition trials help generate robust data, identify environmental interactions, and accelerate adoption. We’re open to contributing with product candidates, data interpretation, and cross-regional agronomic support.
BS: Conducting field trials in various countries allows researchers to capture a wide range of environmental variables. For example, a biological control agent effective in the humid tropics may not perform similarly in arid regions. Understanding these nuances is critical for developing universally applicable solutions. Also, establishing international research networks can facilitate data sharing and best practices. The Global Alliance for Climate-Smart Agriculture promotes collaboration among countries to enhance agricultural resilience. Such networks can help standardize methodologies and improve the reliability of results across different regions. And very important as well, implementing feedback loops where farmers report their experiences with biological products can provide valuable real-time data. This grassroots information can inform future research and product development, ensuring that solutions are grounded in practical realities. For example, farmer-led trials can yield insights into local pest dynamics and the effectiveness of biological controls.
Q: What are you looking for in novel inerts to support efficacy, shelf-life, and formulation of biologicals? What data do you need?
LO: We look for inerts that improve stability, protect microbial viability, and support controlled release. From suppliers, we need compatibility data, safety information, and performance results across temperature and humidity ranges.
BS: We at Rainbow Bio know that inerts are often overlooked, yet they play a crucial role in the formulation of biological products. Ideal inerts should enhance the stability of active ingredients, improve the delivery of these agents to target organisms, and be nontoxic to beneficial organisms. For example, using biodegradable polymers as carriers can improve the efficacy of microbial inoculants while minimizing environmental impact.
Comprehensive studies are needed to evaluate the interactions between inerts and active ingredients. This includes assessing how inerts affect microbial viability under various storage conditions and their behavior in different soil types. Additionally, understanding the potential for inerts to influence soil chemistry and biology is essential for long-term sustainability. As the market for biological products grows, regulatory agencies are increasingly scrutinizing the safety and efficacy of inerts. Companies must invest in research to provide robust data that supports the use of these materials, ensuring compliance with evolving regulations. For instance, the EU’s regulations on biopesticides require extensive data on inert ingredients, pushing companies to innovate in this area.
Q: What do you seek in innovative additives that enhance bioproducts, and what information do you require?
LO: We value additives that improve adhesion, persistence, or synergistic activity. Key data include mode of action, interaction with living organisms, and regulatory status.
BS: The additives can serve multiple purposes, such as enhancing the adhesion of biological products to plant surfaces, improving the solubility of active ingredients, or stabilizing formulations against environmental degradation. For instance, using natural surfactants derived from plant extracts can improve the spreadability of microbial products on leaf surfaces, enhancing their effectiveness. Therefore, to assess the impact of additives, rigorous testing protocols should be established. This includes field trials that measure not only the efficacy of the biological product but also its impact on crop yield, health, and resistance to pests and diseases. Long-term studies can help determine the sustainability of these additives in agricultural systems. On top of that, as the market for bioproducts grows, educating consumers about the benefits of innovative additives is crucial. Transparency in labeling and marketing can help build trust and encourage adoption among farmers. For example, case studies showcasing successful applications of additives can serve as powerful testimonials.
Q: What are concerns about long-term accumulation of introduced microbes in soil ecosystems?
LO: This is a valid concern. Responsible companies must monitor persistence and ensure strains do not displace indigenous communities. Most commercial microbes decline naturally after application, but long-term ecological studies are essential and something we strongly support.
BS: The introduction of nonindigenous microbes can lead to shifts in soil microbial communities, potentially disrupting established ecological balances. Research should focus on understanding the long-term impacts of these products on soil health, including nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and plant-microbe interactions. For instance, studies have shown that repeated applications of certain microbial inoculants can lead to reduced diversity in soil microbial communities. Implementing monitoring programs that assess soil microbial diversity and function over time can provide insights into the cumulative effects of biological products. Techniques such as metagenomics can help identify shifts in microbial populations and their functional capabilities, allowing for adaptive management strategies. To mitigate potential negative impacts, practices such as crop rotation, cover cropping, and the use of indigenous microbial inoculants can help maintain soil health and biodiversity. Research into the synergistic effects of combining indigenous and nonindigenous microbes can also provide pathways for sustainable application.
Q: How should biological companies be honest about ideal conditions for performance?
LO: Transparency is critical. Companies must clearly communicate environmental thresholds — soil pH, temperature, water quality, residues — and provide realistic expectations. This builds trust and ensures products succeed when used correctly.
BS: Companies must prioritize transparency in their marketing claims, providing clear and accessible information about the conditions under which their products are effective. This includes detailed guidelines on application rates, timing, and environmental conditions. For example, companies could publish case studies demonstrating product performance under various conditions. Therefore, those actions will bring trust with farmers: Establishing a reputation for honesty can enhance customer loyalty and trust. Engaging with farmers through educational programs and field demonstrations can help bridge the gap between scientific research and practical application. For instance, hosting workshops where farmers can see the products in action can foster a sense of community and shared learning.
Adhering to regulatory standards and best practices in product development and marketing can help ensure that claims are substantiated. Collaborating with regulatory agencies to establish clear guidelines can facilitate market access and consumer confidence.
Q: What is the biggest regulatory challenge in the biostimulant market in your region?
LO: The main challenge is the lack of harmonization. Requirements vary widely between countries, causing delays and increasing costs. A clearer, more consistent regulatory framework would greatly accelerate innovation and commercialization.
BS: The biostimulant market is often characterized by a patchwork of regulations that vary by country and region. Companies must navigate these complexities to ensure compliance, which can be resource-intensive and time-consuming. For example, U.S. EPA has specific guidelines for biopesticides that differ from those in the EU, complicating international trade. Advocacy for clearer definitions and standardized regulations can help streamline the approval process for biostimulants. Engaging with policymakers and industry stakeholders can facilitate the development of a cohesive regulatory framework that supports innovation while ensuring safety and efficacy. International collaboration can help harmonize regulations and facilitate the exchange of knowledge and best practices. Organizations such as the International Biostimulants Industry Council play a crucial role in promoting dialogue among stakeholders.
Q: Would the future of biologicals improve if we shift from an industrial model to a community-based approach?
LO: Both approaches have value. Industrial production ensures scale, quality, and consistency, while community-based initiatives can support local adaptation and education. A hybrid model — industry-led innovation combined with local engagement — may offer the best outcomes.
BS: In my opinion, a community-based approach emphasizes the importance of local knowledge and practices in the development and application of biological products. Engaging farmers in the research process can lead to solutions that are more relevant and effective in their specific contexts. For example, participatory research initiatives can empower farmers to test and adapt biological products based on their unique challenges.
Secondly, a collaborative effort among farmers, researchers, and extension services can foster resilience in agricultural systems. For example, farmer collaborative effort valuable insights into the performance of biological products under local conditions, leading to more effective and sustainable practices. A community-based approach can enhance ecosystem services, such as pollination, soil health, and water retention, by promoting practices that support biodiversity. Encouraging agroecological practices can lead to healthier ecosystems and improved agricultural productivity.
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