CALGARY, AB, APRIL 18, 2024 – Bayer Crop Science Canada has partnered with the University of Alberta (U of A) to research the genetic diversity of Canada’s most exported crop – canola. Through this research, the team at U of A aims to make hybrid canola stronger, leading to an increased yield for Canadian farmers.
“There is a prosperous future for canola in Canada,” says Antoine Bernet, President and CEO, Bayer Crop Science Canada. “The talented research team at the University of Alberta are developing hundreds of canola lines, which could be a game changer for our farmers. Having canola that not only has an increased seed yield, but is also more disease resistant, would be an incredible step forward for Canadian agriculture.”
The research team is currently evaluating the genes of brassica vegetables, such as broccoli and kale, to determine which are best for breeding new lines of canola to produce the strongest hybrids. These types of plants are closely related to canola, and showcase the untapped genetic range and diversity available for canola development. Through this research, the team can then conclude which sources and backgrounds can create the highest yield for canola.
“Canada is the top producer of canola, and with demand expected to increase substantially over the next decade, it’s critical that we support research that will help to bolster this important crop,” says Antoine. “While it will take time to develop these hybrids, I’m optimistic about the work done by the team at U of A to enhance the genetic diversity of canola here in Canada.”
Once developed and proven effective, the improved genetic material and the knowledge from the research will support the long-term work of Bayer Crop Science to produce new commercial hybrids.
About Bayer Crop Science Canada
In Canada, Bayer Crop Science offers growers a wide choice of tailored solutions with an integrated product portfolio of crop protection products, seed treatment technologies, plant biotechnology and digital farming solutions. As a top employer in Canada, the Crop Science division employs over 550 people, spanning 22 research, breeding, production, and office sites across the country. For more information, visit www.cropscience.bayer.ca or follow us on X: @Bayer4CropsCA.
About Bayer
Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of health care and nutrition. In line with its mission, “Health for all, Hunger for none,” the company’s products and services are designed to help people and the planet thrive by supporting efforts to master the major challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. Bayer is committed to driving sustainable development and generating a positive impact with its businesses. At the same time, the Group aims to increase its earning power and create value through innovation and growth. The Bayer brand stands for trust, reliability, and quality throughout the world. In fiscal 2023, the Group employed around 100,000 people and had sales of 47.6 billion euros. R&D expenses before special items amounted to 5.8 billion euros. For more information, go to www.bayer.ca.
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