Corteva Agriscience officially opened its Centre for Seed Applied Technologies (CSAT) laboratory in Rosslyn, Pretoria on 5 May. This modern facility is one of only six worldwide and will focus specifically on recipe development and safety testing of seed applied solutions.
The site will also be integrated into Corteva’s global CSAT network and is strategically positioned to meet the ongoing demands of grain producers across Africa and the Middle East, ensuring that they have access to high-quality seed and better field performance.
Seed treatments involve the application of chemical or biological substances, such as fungicides or insecticides, directly to the surface of a seed, safeguarding the seeds and seedlings against insects, fungal diseases and soil-borne pathogens.
‘This CSAT lab further strengthens the company’s offering in the seed production segment,’ said Tony Esmeraldo, business director: South Africa, Corteva Agriscience. ‘We are offering the most complete package of solutions, including the development of the best hybrids, crop protection innovations and now, one of the most sophisticated seed treatment processes farmers can have at their disposal.’
The Rosslyn site was designed with advanced equipment to perform various tests that will ensure the quality of the treatment applied to the seed, offering a greater guarantee to producers. The facility will also serve Corteva’s respective seed brands – Pannar and Pioneer – as well as other industry collaborators, with a view to create new seed treatment solutions to help producers overcome the challenges of an ever-changing agricultural sector.
