New Information Center Launches for Those Curious About Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus
December 22, 2022 
Since 2015, Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV) has negatively impacted tomato production. It is now in at least 35 countries with more instances occurring every year. With no end in sight for the virus, growers are searching for solutions to help minimize their risk. To help with that, Syngenta Vegetable Seeds has launched a new digital ToBRFV Information Center to give growers another tool in the fight for healthy tomatoes.
“Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus has a significant impact on growers,” says Ruud Kaagman, Global Crop Unit Head, Tomatoes at Syngenta Vegetable Seeds. “In fact, growers can lose up to 70% of their produce due to the virus, and it’s spreading rapidly. Therefore, broad resistance will be built into our portfolio during the next several years.”
Research for additional new resistances, including new modes of action, is ongoing. Until then, there are practical steps growers can take to reduce the spread of this virus. The new online portal provides tips and tricks to protect tomatoes.
For example: Because ToBRFV transmits easily on clothing, accessories, equipment, and tools, it’s vitally important to follow stringent standards to minimize the risk of spreading the virus from greenhouse to greenhouse or field to field. The ToBRFV Resource page provides helpful tips for reducing transmission risk, including a video as well as checklist and infographic. These can be downloaded, printed, and posted in greenhouse spaces to inform employees and guests of best practices to keep tomato crops safe. According to the company, it’s available in English, and additional languages will be added in the coming months.
In addition, visitors also will find easy-to-explain information about what ToBRFV is to help train employees and guests of the importance of preventing the virus. Operators can find deeper details about what the virus is, where it has spread, and what Syngenta is doing to partner with growers.
To check out the ToBRFV Information Center, visit Syngentavegetables.com/ToBRFV.
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