Bayer takes action against the ToBRFV virus

Bayer launches an online center for combating the dangerous ToBRFV virus. The company has created a new campaign called “Confidence at Every Level”, aimed at providing a reliable platform for information on the latest research on the ToBRFV virus.

The information on the website, which will be available in different languages depending on the country where it is accessed, will include a variety of news about the tomato brown rugose fruit virus – from in-depth knowledge of the damage, spread and etymology of the virus, to a healthy seed program and new resistant varieties.

ToBRFV is a viral disease affecting tomato plants, which is spreading rapidly worldwide. As a leader in research and development, Bayer is working at all levels to provide long-term solutions for growers, traders and consumers. Consistent performance and excellent fruit quality, taste and yield potential are the foundation of our research."

Investments in research and the SHIELD program

For ToBRFV-resistant tomatoes, Bayer selects established varieties with confirmed quality characteristics. Among Bayer’s tomato portfolio are Strabini, Ferreira, Novero and Caramelino.

During the research phase, only varieties that meet the standards of the German company, after testing under “real” growing conditions, will be released on the market. As part of the ToBRFV program for mitigating the consequences of the virus, in 2023 Bayer invested in a new quarantine greenhouse with an area of 2000 m2 in Wageningen, the Netherlands.

The SHIELD program focuses on the prevention, detection and elimination of pathogens such as ToBRFV in tomato production and processing facilities. Viral pathogens, under suitable climatic conditions, lead to slowed plant growth, wilting, fruit deformation, yield loss and compromised production.

For more information see HERE

photo © Bayer