On July 12, ZeaKal announced a new collaboration with Nutrien Ag Solutions to support the commercialization of ZeaKal’s photosynthesis trait technology for U.S. soybean growers, according to a release. The two companies have the goal of creating a higher value, more diverse and sustainable global soybean supply chain.
ZeaKal’s photosynthesis trait technology — PhotoSeed — increases photosynthetic capacity. In soybeans, the enhanced carbon capture has resulted in improved oil and protein without compromising field yields, ZeaKal reports.
“There is no question, the world needs a better soybean and the collaboration with Nutrien Ag Solutions brings us one step closer to that reality,” said Han Chen, ZeaKal CEO and co-founder, in the release. “Nutrien Ag Solutions is a critical piece of the puzzle for ZeaKal, growers and our other collaborators in fully realizing the potential of PhotoSeed. Together, we can accelerate and increase the depth of our product offering with flexible and customized agronomic solutions that protect the yield potential and value created through our genetics.”
Under the agreement, Nutrien Ag Solutions will release ZeaKal-branded soybean seeds to U.S. growers in time for the 2024 growing season.
“To provide the most holistic offering of products, we seek opportunities with other companies that are creating innovative solutions,” said Rob Clayton, senior vice president of Nutrien Ag Solutions North America, said in the release. “Working with ZeaKal, we will offer a new, high-quality soybean option. By understanding the needs of our growers, Nutrien Ag Solutions’ goal is to be the most Customer-Focused Agronomics Solution provider. We are very excited for our growers to experience ZeaKal-branded soybeans, with our other suite of complementary products.”
