Improving Nutritional Content in Apple Crops: Insights from Verdesian-Cytozyme USA Technologies
Guest author – R.K. Goyal, Managing Director (South Asia), Verdesian Life Sciences LLC
09 January 2024, New Delhi: As global agriculture faces increasing challenges from climate change, the need for innovative solutions to enhance crop yield, resilience, and nutritional value has never been more pressing. In this context, Verdesian Life Sciences, in collaboration with Cytozyme USA, has made significant strides in addressing these issues through cutting-edge agricultural technologies. By leveraging the potential of MAC (Metabolically Active Compounds) and NUE (Nutrient Use Efficiency) technologies, we are paving the way for more sustainable and nutrient-dense crop production.
Recent studies conducted in the apple orchards of Kashmir have provided compelling evidence of how these technologies can revolutionize the agricultural landscape, offering benefits not just to growers but also to consumers. These advancements align with the global need for solutions that promote sustainable farming while meeting the increasing demand for high-quality, nutrient-rich food.
Unveiling the Impact of Verdesian-Cytozyme Technologies
A comprehensive two-year study was carried out in partnership with Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST), Srinagar, across ten apple orchards in Kashmir. The objective was to evaluate how Verdesian-Cytozyme’s proprietary crop package could influence the nutrient profile of apples. The study meticulously tested critical nutritional parameters, including nitrogen, sulphur, calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper, manganese, and iron, while also assessing the ability of these technologies to mitigate environmental stresses such as drought and soil degradation.
The findings demonstrated a remarkable enhancement in the nutrient content of apples treated with MAC and NUE technologies compared to traditional farming practices. The increase in essential nutrients ranged from 18.9% to a staggering 135%, underscoring the potential of these innovations to redefine crop quality and productivity.
Key Insights from the Study
The study revealed transformative results, particularly in nutrient uptake and crop resilience. Nitrogen, a fundamental element for plant growth, showed an impressive increase of 127%, reflecting significant improvements in plant health and productivity. Calcium levels, critical for fruit firmness and post-harvest quality, rose by 135%, potentially reducing fruit drop and post-harvest losses. Magnesium and sulphur also saw substantial increases of 88.4% and 99%, respectively, suggesting enhanced photosynthetic efficiency and protein synthesis.
Micronutrients, often overlooked but crucial for enzyme activity and photosynthesis, demonstrated significant upticks as well. Zinc content increased by 124.5%, copper by 72%, manganese by 32.75%, and iron by 18.9%, collectively contributing to superior fruit quality and nutritional density.
Here is a summary of the nutrient profile improvement:
| Nutrient (ppm) | Control | Treated | Difference | Improvement (%) |
| Nitrogen (%) | 0.11 | 0.25 | 0.14 | 127 |
| Sulphur | 112 | 223 | 111 | 99 |
| Calcium | 240 | 563 | 323 | 135 |
| Magnesium | 310.5 | 585.1 | 274.6 | 88.4 |
| Zinc | 12.25 | 27.5 | 15.25 | 124.5 |
| Copper | 5 | 8.6 | 3.6 | 72 |
| Manganese | 5.8 | 7.7 | 1.9 | 32.75 |
| Iron | 30.1 | 35.8 | 5.7 | 18.9 |
These results illustrate the transformative potential of Verdesian-Cytozyme’s technologies in enhancing crop quality, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and supporting the agricultural sector’s goal of sustainable, high-quality food production.
Transforming the Agricultural Landscape
The implications of these advancements are profound for apple growers and the agricultural sector at large. The ability to produce nutrient-dense apples not only benefits growers by enabling premium pricing but also addresses critical nutritional challenges faced by consumers. In regions where local produce forms a significant part of the diet, such improvements could have far-reaching health benefits, including enhanced immunity and better overall health outcomes.
In addition to its impact on crop quality, the increased NUE associated with these technologies addresses a critical issue in modern agriculture: soil nutrient depletion. By optimizing nutrient uptake, farmers can reduce their reliance on excessive fertilizer applications, lowering costs and minimizing environmental impact.
The testimony of progressive farmers like Nissar Ahmad Khan from Langate village in Baramullah district further underscores the practical value of these technologies. “The difference is remarkable,” he shared, highlighting significant improvements in fruit color, firmness, size, and shape after using products like Crop+, CytoNutri CaB, and Cyto Red. “These are, without a doubt, the best biostimulants and nutrients available in the market.”
ROI Insights from Farmers Using Verdesian-Cytozyme Technologies
The return on investment (ROI) achieved by farmers using Verdesian-Cytozyme technologies highlights their economic viability. Among the studied farmers, Hilal Ahmad from Shopian recorded the highest ROI of 19:1, followed closely by Showkat Ahmad from Kulgam at 15:1 and Gh Hassan Lone from Kulgam at 14:1. Other notable results include Gh Rasool Mir from Baramullah with an ROI of 7:1 and Mushtaq Ahmad from Anantnag with an ROI of 6.82:1. These figures underscore the significant financial benefits for growers adopting these advanced biostimulants and nutrient technologies, making them a compelling choice for farmers aiming to enhance both productivity and profitability.
Looking Forward: The Role of Innovation in Sustainable Agriculture
In a broader context, the results of this study also highlight the potential for partnerships between agricultural technology companies and research institutions, such as Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, to drive forward advancements that directly benefit farmers and consumers alike. By focusing on both yield and quality, such initiatives can support the agricultural sector’s goal to produce nutritious food in a way that respects the environment and supports the livelihoods of growers.
Verdesian-Cytozyme’s MAC and NUE technology has shown to be an effective solution in enhancing the nutritional content of apple crops, increasing yield, and improving resilience against environmental stresses. As India continues to adopt advanced agricultural practices, these technologies are likely to play a key role in shaping the future of Indian agriculture.
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