Stockholm, Sweden
June 27, 2007
Lantmännen Lantbruk is now investing, on a broad front, in
the biological seed treatment methods ThermoSeed, Cedomon and
Cerall. New results from field trials by the Swedish University
of Agricultural Sciences show for the third consecutive year
that biological treatment methods produce better outcomes than
the chemical agents tested.
“These new results have really put wind in our sails. This is
the third year in a row that biological seed treatment agents
have worked better than the chemical agents tested. These latest
results also show even greater differences than previously. The
biological treatment is more efficient against seed-borne fungal
diseases,” says Peter Annas, Department Manager, Seed Treatment,
Lantmännen Lantbruk.
Biologically treated seed has many advantages for both the
natural environment and the farmers’ work environment. No
foreign materials or substances are released into the natural
world, which means that farmers do not need to worry either
about the environment or about their own health.
“We have now obtained eco-friendly methods that combine good
impacts on diseases and good harvests. So, of course, we are
satisfied and are investing heavily in these options,” says
Bertil Hult, Seed Manager, Lantmännen Lantbruk.
Cedomon has been used successfully for many years in several
countries. Its successor, Cerall, was approved for use in Sweden
last year and is now being used on a broad front. In addition,
Lantmännen Lantbruk has recently invested in the ThermoSeed
technology, and the first large-scale facility has been
operating in Skara for about a year now.
There has been very keen international interest in these
biological methods. Cedomon and Cerall are already being used in
several countries around Europe. More countries are taking their
turn as the products gain approval in the respective countries.
ThermoSeed is also about to go onto the international market.
About the biological seed treatment methods
ThermoSeed: A new technology that uses steam to heat-treat seed.
Fungi and other substances, which can transmit harmful diseases
to the plant, are killed during the treatment.
Cedomon and Cerall: Contain a soil bacterium that is a natural
enemy of the seed-borne diseases to which the plant may be
exposed.
About Lantmännen Lantbruk
Lantmännen is one of the Nordic region’s largest groups within
food, energy and agriculture. Lantmännen is owned by 44,000
Swedish farmers, has around 13,000 employees, operates in 19
countries and has a turnover of SEK 32 billion. Lantmännen
Lantbruk constitutes the Group’s core business. We develop and
offer products and services that contribute to creating an
agriculture that is strong and competitive. |
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