Breeding and agronomic optimization for enhanced crop color production
This research initiative combines a crop-science partner's expertise in breeding technologies and germplasm with Oterra's IP in color biosynthesis to develop genetically engineered crops with enhanced color production. The collaboration aims to optimize food and pet food crops using novel agronomic techniques.
Overview
This innovative research collaboration between Oterra and a crop-science partner aims to develop genetically engineered crops with enhanced color production, specifically targeting food and pet food markets. By leveraging the partner's expertise in new breeding technologies and germplasm, alongside Oterra's intellectual property in color biosynthesis, the project seeks to create crops that not only meet market needs but also enhance the nutritional and aesthetic value of food products. Additionally, the use of commercial Ethephon products aims to increase the agronomic production of color in crops, specifically anthocyanin pathways, which are vital for vibrant, appealing crop colors.
Technical specifications
- Breeding Technologies: Utilizes advanced genetic engineering techniques to develop market-relevant germplasm.
- Color Biosynthesis Expertise: Oterra's IP focuses on enhancing natural color pathways, particularly anthocyanins, which are vital for crop attractiveness and nutritional value.
- Agronomic Optimization: Application of commercial Ethephon products to boost color production in crops, improving both yield and quality.
- Regulatory and Market Pathways: Exploration of USDA and FDA regulatory requirements for genetically engineered crops, with a focus on market and consumer acceptance in the USA.
Technology readiness level
This research initiative is currently at Technology Readiness Level 5, indicating that the technology has been validated in relevant environments and is ready for further development and regulatory exploration. The next steps include finalizing a collaboration agreement with the crop-science partner, creating a comprehensive R&D plan, and formulating a go-to-market strategy with key stakeholders.
About Oterra
Oterra provides natural colors and color solutions for food and beverage manufacturers, positioning natural sourcing as an alternative to artificial colors. It develops, produces, and sells natural colors and coloring foods, and emphasizes “making nature easy” by managing the complexity of a natural supply chain while supporting customers with pigment choice and application expertise. Oterra also highlights its R&D commitment, world-class application expertise, and control across the value chain of raw materials. It operates globally with production facilities and a network of application centers, with scientists supporting customers’ work with natural colors.
For manufacturers, the company’s offering is aimed at helping bring appealing products to consumers while navigating switching to natural color ingredients and reducing time to market. Oterra serves customers across the food and beverage industry (including applications for dietary supplements and pet food as described by the company) and provides localized support. Oterra’s materials and corporate communications also describe ongoing investments in capabilities and global infrastructure—such as innovation, collaboration, and production expansion in the US—as part of supporting growth in demand for natural colors.
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