Lucent Bio is working on a product that will feature biodegradable and microplastic-free coatings for controlled-release NPK fertilizers.

The new product will be announced later this year, noted the company.

In the meantime, the company has announced the launch of Nutreos, a non-toxic, plant-based, and biodegradable micronutrient seed coating, a solution the company says aligns with impending regulatory changes addressing microplastics in seed treatments.

In a news release, Lucent Bio noted Nutreos not only avoids microplastics but also improves germination, vigour, and root growth, ensuring better crop establishment and nutrition.

The company is building the first Nutreos manufacturing plant in British Columbia, Canada, targeted to become operational by the end of 2024, and aims to expand production capacity in the U.S., Brazil and Europe.

Lucent Bio is co-developing and conducting trials with seed companies using the Nutreos seed coating technology and is expanding its partner and co-development program.