Arcadia Biosciences sells Durum RS Wheat to Corteva Agriscience

Arcadia Biosciences announced the execution of a sales contract for its “trait” (trait, characteristic) of durum wheat “Resistant Starch" (RS) to Corteva Agriscience. Under the agreement, Arcadia will receive US$4 million and will maintain the right to continue using "RS Durum Wheat" in its GoodWheat portfolio, which includes products such as pasta and macaroni and cheese. Corteva, in turn, will acquire 24 RS Durum patents in 20 countries.

Arcadia and Corteva began their collaboration in 2017 with an agreement to develop and commercialize Durum RS Wheat in North America. Since then, Corteva has been working on introducing the RS Durum trait into elite germplasm lines within its portfolio.

Developed through non-GMO breeding techniques, Arcadia's Durum RS Wheat trait stands out for its wheat varieties that contain up to 94% amylose, a carbohydrate molecule that is less susceptible to digestion. This type of starch offers significant health benefits, especially in managing gastrointestinal health, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Because it is digested more slowly, it has a lower glycemic index and acts as a prebiotic.

“Wheat is one of the main foods consumed worldwide, and consumers are looking for ways to improve their nutrition through natural sources. As a leading global agricultural company, Corteva is the ideal partner to bring this trait to farmers around the world,” said Stan Jacot, president and CEO of Arcadia.