02 June 2026, São Paulo: Elemental Enzymes and UPL have announced the launch of ‘Strakor’, a peptide-based biological solution developed for the management of citrus greening (Huanglongbing or HLB), one of the most destructive diseases affecting citrus production worldwide.
According to the companies, Strakor® is the only registered product in Brazil specifically designed for the efficient management of citrus greening. The launch marks a significant milestone for Brazil’s citrus industry, which has faced growing challenges from the disease in recent years.
Developed using Elemental Enzymes’ Vismax™ technology platform, Strakor® utilizes signaling peptides that activate the plant’s natural immune system. The technology is designed to trigger systemic defense responses within the plant, enabling it to better withstand disease pressure while promoting overall plant health and orchard productivity.
Citrus greening is widely regarded as one of the most serious threats to global citrus cultivation. The bacterial disease, spread primarily by the Asian citrus psyllid, can reduce fruit quality, lower yields, weaken trees, and eventually lead to orchard decline. Managing the disease has remained a major challenge for growers, particularly in leading citrus-producing regions such as Brazil.
Brian Thompson, Chief Executive Officer of Elemental Enzymes, said the launch demonstrates how precision peptide science can be translated into practical agricultural solutions. “Strakor isn’t just a product—it’s what happens when precision peptide science meets a grower’s real-world challenge. Together with UPL, we’re giving Brazilian citrus growers their first registered tool against HLB while also providing broad-spectrum protection against bacterial and fungal pathogens,” he said.
The companies stated that, in addition to supporting HLB management, Strakor® offers protection against a range of bacterial and fungal diseases. The solution is designed to integrate into existing crop protection programs and can be applied without significant changes to growers’ current management practices.
Mariana Yama, Product Manager at UPL Brazil, said the introduction of Strakor® represents an important advancement in agricultural management. “We are talking about a solution that combines science, innovation, and sustainability, contributing to a more balanced, productive agriculture that is prepared for today’s challenges in the field,” she said.
Brazil is the world’s largest producer and exporter of orange juice, making disease management a critical priority for the country’s citrus sector. Industry observers believe that new biological technologies such as peptide-based crop protection tools could play an increasingly important role in integrated disease management programs as growers seek sustainable and effective solutions to protect yields and orchard longevity.
Global Agriculture is an independent international media platform covering agri-business, policy, technology, and sustainability. For editorial collaborations, thought leadership, and strategic communications, write to pr@global-agriculture.com
