SPEAR® LEP obtains emergency use authorization in the EU from a fourth country prior to final regulatory approval
July 8, 2025 – Kalamazoo, MI – Portugal has granted emergency use authorization (EUA) to Vestaron’s innovative SPEAR® LEP bioinsecticide, which will allow growers to protect their tomato crops against devastating infestations of tomato fruit moth (Tuta absoluta). This 120-day authorization gives Portuguese growers access to a new mode of action to combat a critical pest that threatens the country’s significant tomato production, especially in the face of increasing resistance to traditional insecticides.
Vestaron is collaborating with LAINCO, a Spanish company with 90 years of experience specializing in the development, manufacturing and marketing of agrochemicals throughout Europe. LAINCO’s technical and regulatory expertise, together with its in-depth knowledge of the local market, will be key to maximizing the impact of this innovative solution in the Portuguese market.
Since its first appearance in 2009 in the Algarve and Madeira, the tomato moth has spread throughout the country’s production areas, affecting both industrial and fresh consumption tomatoes. In 2023, Portugal cultivated approximately 18,440 hectares of tomatoes, with a production of 1.8 million tons, positioning it as one of the main EU producers after Italy and Spain. However, problems such as water shortages and late pest attacks meant that yields were only average last year. The Portuguese growers’ group COTHN (Centro Operativo Tecnológico Hortofrutícola Nacional), which requested the authorization from the Directorate General of Food and Veterinary, was pleased that this temporary authorization will provide its members with a new tool for effective and sustainable control of the pest.
Initially controlled with insecticides of the diamide group, the tomato moth has developed resistance, requiring a strategic integrated pest management (IPM) approach. SPEAR LEP is a biological product derived from natural peptides present in spider venom, produced by natural fermentation. With proven results on over 1 million acres, it offers targeted and precise control of lepidopteran pests, including Tuta absoluta, with no known resistance or cross-resistance to synthetic pesticides, making it an essential component of integrated pest management programs. Field trials in Europe have shown that its efficacy equals that of traditional synthetic insecticides.
“Portugal joins Italy, Greece and Cyprus in stepping forward to provide effective and necessary solutions to farmers against evolving pests,” said Juan Estupinan, CEO and president of Vestaron. “SPEAR LEP’s proven peptide technology enables farmers to protect their crops while promoting biodiversity and environmental health. We are actively working to achieve full approval in Europe and expand our portfolio of innovative bioinsecticides. Our collaboration with LAINCO exemplifies a joint commitment to bring cutting-edge biocontrol solutions to European agriculture, combining innovation and regulatory strategy.”
“This partnership with Vestaron reinforces our long-term vision of transforming crop protection through biotechnology,” said Hugo Cores, Marketing Director of LAINCO. “With the introduction of SPEAR® LEP, we are not only offering Portuguese farmers a new tool against Tuta absoluta, but also taking a firm step towards a more resilient and sustainable agricultural model, starting in Portugal.”
Fully biodegradable and highly specific to the target pest, SPEAR LEP presents minimal risks to pollinators, has an excellent safety profile for people and the environment, a 0-day collection interval and leaves no maximum residues (MRLs). Vestaron’s innovation was recognized with the European Bee Award 2023 for technological solutions that reduce the impact of agricultural operations on pollinators, the first U.S. company to receive this distinction.
About LAINCO
LAINCO, S.A., based in Barcelona, Spain, is a leader in the development and commercialization of agrochemicals and crop protection products, with a strong commitment to sustainable agriculture. Specializing in innovative crop protection solutions, LAINCO supports European farmers through advanced formulations and strategic alliances, promoting integrated pest management and environmentally responsible practices.
About Vestaron
Vestaron is leading a global revolution in crop protection by creating effective and sustainable solutions. Founded in 2005 and based in the USA, it develops a line of potent insecticides with new modes of action based on peptides derived from the venom of spiders and other venomous animals, which enhance any IPM program. Harmless to pollinators, beneficial organisms and local biodiversity, its innovations have been recognized by the Crop Science Awards and the EPA Green Chemistry Award. Vestaron is the first company in the agri-food sector to be inducted into the Global CleanTech 100 Hall of Fame.Vestaron: Unusual, by nature.℠
