Scientists plan to make a bioinsecticide from chicory

Scientists from Belgium and the Netherlands are investigating whether natural bitter substances from chicory and chicory root can be used as an ecological alternative to synthetic insecticides. This is reported by Vilt.be. "We know that chicory and chicory root plants use bitter substances to protect themselves from insects and diseases," said Willem Desmedt from the Flemish Institute for Agriculture and Fisheries. The bitter components, known as sesquiterpene lactones, effectively repel pests and can be extracted from the roots at a low cost. As part of the four-year Sesquichic project, researchers plan to isolate these substances, test their effectiveness in various doses and environments, and determine methods for large-scale production for a new generation of biological insecticides. "Circularity is important: current chicory production waste can become a source of valuable components for plant protection," added project coordinator Katrien Van Laere. The consortium of ...