Novel Grain Protection Technology As A Fumigation Alternative

A finding corroborated by novIGRain project's working group focused on the assessment of resistance against insecticide used in Europe for stored product pests control. Today, we can no longer rely on the efficacy of existing approved formulations; there is an urgent need for alternative solutions. Larvicides have never been introduced and used in stored grain protection in the EU. Within the framework of the novIGRain project, a formulation using a larvicide active ingredient, S-methoprene is developed along with accompanying innovative technology for the protection of stored cereals. S-methoprene is a juvenile hormone analogue (JHA) biorational insecticide which act by blocking larval-pupal transformation and pupal-adult metamorphosis. S-methoprene affect insect development only at specific, susceptible developmental stages resulting in long-term population control by preventing the emergence of new insect generations. Since S-methoprene elicits a specific effect on certain insects, toxicology profile of this active substance is very favourable in non-target vertebrates. The formulation uses a renewable solvent carrier of natural origin, making the insecticide sustainable.