Abstract

Science and technology offer new opportunities to transform the Argentine agricultural sector toward sustainable and bio-inspired models. Tomato production, with an annual output of 1,100,000 tons, faces the challenge of pathogenic strains resistant to common fungicides, necessitating new control strategies to enhance the plant’s immune system and protect the fruit. In response, research was conducted on the use of Bacterial Nano-Cellulose (BNC) to formulate film-forming suspensions that act as natural fungicides. This formulation coats the plant without interfering with its natural growth or photosynthesis, thanks to an 85% transparency and a controlled pH of 5.9, which optimizes the absorption of essential nutrients such as phosphorus and calcium. Results indicate that BNC forms an adherent, moisture-resistant film capable of protecting the crop from pathogens such as B. cinerea throughout its growth cycle. Notably, BNC-treated plants showed the highest productivity in comparative trials. It is hypothesized that this technology exerts a barrier effect, allowing the plant to redirect its energy toward strengthening its own immune system rather than expending it on defending against external aggressions. Therefore, the use of BNC presents a viable alternative for organic and agroecological production, with the potential to eliminate the use of agrochemicals in the future and ensure healthier harvests in regions with high horticultural potential.

Abbreviations:CP: Clean Production; 4R: (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Regenerate); S3B: (Sustainable, Biodegradable, Biotechnological, Bio-inspired); T: Tons; ha: hectares; Kg: Kilogram; INTA: National Institute of Agricultural Technology; BMP: Good Manufacturer Practices; LEFyBiFa: Laboratorio de Estudios Farmacéuticos y Biotecnología Farmacéutica; SF: Filmogenic Suspension; HPMC: Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose; PEG400: Polietilenglicol 400; ANMAT: Administración Nacional de Medicamentos, Alimentos y Tecnología Médica