BASF invested EUR 50 mln in breeding center for cucumbers in the Netherlands
BASF has opened a new state-of-the-art breeding center for cucumbers at its site in Nunhem, the Netherlands. At around EUR 50 million, it is the largest investment in the hundred-year history of the Nunhem vegetable seeds business.
The 2.5 hectare greenhouse complex with a 17,000 m2 technical and office facility will increase BASF’s capabilities to meet the needs of consumers and the global food value chain with novel vegetable varieties.
“Vegetable seeds are a key part of BASF’s expanded portfolio in agriculture and we are excited to support the growth of our business through innovation and state-of-the-art breeding technologies”, said Markus Heldt, President of BASF’s Agricultural Solutions division.
The results from these programs will provide innovative new varieties for greenhouse and open-field growers as well as retailers and consumers around the world.
It is noted that in combination with marker technology in the laboratory and indoor farming techniques, this breeding center will reduce the development time of seed varieties by up to 25 percent.