Bayer files registration for first new herbicide mode of action in decades
Icafolin-methyl heads for regulatory review in EU after submissions in Brazil, U.S., and Canada
GLOBAL – Bayer has submitted registration applications for its new herbicide, icafolin-methyl, in the European Union, marking a major step in advancing its crop protection pipeline.
This follows earlier filings in Brazil, the United States, and Canada.
Icafolin is the first new mode of action for post-emergent weed control in broadacre crops in more than 30 years. Bayer expects to launch the product starting in 2028, with Brazil as the first market.
The product belongs to a new chemical class designed for use at lower dose rates and with more precise applications. Bayer also expects it to meet high safety and environmental standards.
It will work alongside existing herbicides such as glyphosate, helping farmers manage resistant weeds that have increasingly threatened food production.
“Weeds threaten food security and farmer livelihoods, which is why investing in game-changing innovations like Icafolin is so vitally important,” said Mike Graham, Head of Research & Development for Bayer’s Crop Science division.
“Access to an entirely new herbicide class that complements the existing toolbox not only helps farmers combat and prevent weed resistance, but it also helps farmers adopt and maintain no-till and reduced tillage practices that improve soil health, which is a cornerstone of regenerative agriculture.”
Focus on efficiency and soil health
Icafolin has been developed for crops such as soybeans, cereals, pulses, oilseeds, and fruits including citrus, grapes, and tree nuts.
One of its key benefits is that treated weeds stop competing with crops for water and nutrients but retain their structure longer, forming a natural mulch. This helps reduce soil erosion and keep moisture in the ground.
Bayer noted that the herbicide could reduce the need for tillage, supporting soil-friendly farming.
The company’s recent shift to a new working model, known as DSO, has helped speed up the regulatory timeline. Bayer filed the EU application ahead of schedule.
AI-Driven product development
Icafolin is also the first product created using Bayer’s CropKey approach, which changes how the company develops crop protection tools.
Rather than screening large numbers of molecules, CropKey uses artificial intelligence to design and select only the most promising candidates from the start.
“With CropKey we’re not just responding to current agricultural challenges more quickly, we’re being proactive and anticipating future needs,” said Rachel Rama, Senior Vice President and Head of Small Molecules at Bayer’s Crop Science division.
“Leveraging artificial intelligence greatly accelerates our journey from concept to market, so farmers gain access to the most effective and environmentally responsible crop protection products.”
Icafolin’s development under a reduced risk status also reflects its fit for modern farming needs. Bayer plans to expand its rollout to North America, Europe, and other key regions following the initial launch in Brazil.
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