Continuous innovation
Every day, millions of people eat fruit and vegetables grown from our seeds. This responsibility inspires us to constantly think ahead.
Research is at out core. We breed future-proof varieties with genetic resistance to plant diseases, in anticipation of climate change and ever-changing market demands.
To accelerate the breeding process and ensure high-quality seeds, we utilize modern technologies such as digital phenotyping, data-driven breeding methods, and artificial intelligence. This enables us to breed better, more sustainable varieties with higher yields and natural resistances to plant diseases.
Breeding a new variety takes between 6 and 16 years of research and development work, which is why we constantly think ahead. For example, we conduct market research and discuss industry developments, consumer trends and demographic shifts with growers and chain partners. These insights are incorporated into our breeding programmes so that we can offer customers around the world the most innovative seeds and services, tailored to consumer preferences.
Technology
The new technologies used in the development, production and sale of seeds are revolutionary. Through the use of various technologies, such as AI, Robotics and Machine Vision, we contribute to innovative solutions in our business processes. Partnerships
Combining strengths in R&D
As part of our Research and Development activities, we engage in joint research projects with universities, knowledge institutes and industry partners worldwide. Together, we study plant characteristics to expand the fundamental knowledge of plant mechanisms. Our researchers then integrate these insights into our breeding programmes, to accelerate the further development of fruits and vegetablesUnderstanding abiotic stress in plants
When plants suffer stress due to cold, heat, soil salinity or a lack of fresh water, it results in lower production. That’s why we develop varieties that thrive in hot, dry conditions. In this blog, Ehab Aboukheir, Team Leader Seed Technology Research, shares more about our research into abiotic stress, and how this guides our continuous improvement activities. Breeding labour-friendly plants
In horticulture, there is a continuous focus on finding ways to improve efficiency and sustainability. One significant advancement has been the introduction of plants that are easier to work with. These plants are selected to reduce the physical demands on growers during cultivation and harvesting. In this interview with pepper breeders Ioannis Dimitrakopoulos and Silvia Corella Borrás, we explore the role of breeding in developing labour-friendly plants. The world of Rijk Zwaan
Putting people first
It's not all about science and technology. There is something else - something you won't find under a research microscope. At Rijk Zwaan, we believe in putting people first.
Envisioning the future
Together with our partners, we contribute to a sustainable world food supply by laying the foundation for healthy and appealing fruits and vegetables. We combine the rich genetic diversity that nature has to offer with craftsmanship and state-of-the-art technology.
Positive societal impact
Our position as an internationally operating fruit and vegetable breeding company pushes us to look beyond borders and take care of the world around us.