Basic Substances: An Overlooked Alternative to Pesticides

In the effort to develop more sustainable and eco-friendly crop protection strategies, the role of basic substances is gaining attention. Basic substances are simple, naturally occurring compounds, such as vinegar, sodium bicarbonate, or chitosan, that have been recognized by the Regulation (EC) No. 1107/2009 of the European Union as safe for use in plant protection. They are not synthetic, toxic, or persistent in the environment, making them attractive for integrated pest management (IPM) and organic farming. Chitosan, derived from chitin, shows potential in combating fungal pathogens such as Botrytis cinerea. Despite their potential, challenges remain regarding standardized application protocols and farmer training.