Advancing a more prosperous, food-secure and gender-equitable future for Bangladesh and the Philippines.

Protecting food in a changing world

At the Feed the Future Insect-Resistant Eggplant Partnership, we support equitable access to a proven biotechnology that is enhancing food and nutritional security while protecting the health of farmers and the environment. Together with local partners in Bangladesh and the Philippines, we engage directly with farmers, scientists and policymakers to deliver Bt eggplant varieties that meet the demands of the people who depend on this nutritious crop. As the climate changes and food security comes under increasing stress, it is our mission to strengthen the resilience of communities and food systems in the most vulnerable areas.

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blooming eggplant flower
Farmer harvesting eggplant

RISING TO THE CHALLENGE

With access to improved eggplant varieties that respond directly to their needs, farmers are overcoming adversity to build more resilient lives and communities in the most vulnerable areas.

Latest News

In 2014, Bangladesh became the first in South Asia to embrace the commercial cultivation of genetically engineered food crops. Over the past decade, the journey of Bt eggplant in Bangladesh has been one of enhanced food security and economic opportunities for farmers. Here we explore some of the milestones and progress that have shaped the trajectory of Bt eggplant cultivation in Bangladesh since its inception.

After 15 years of testing and safety trials, the Philippines has become the second country to allow farmers to grow eggplant varieties genetically modified to resist the devastating insect known as the eggplant fruit and shoot borer.

The newly announced partnership aims to introduce new pest-resistant and disease-tolerant eggplant hybrid varieties that foster enhanced food security while safeguarding the health of farmers and the environment.

Bt Eggplant by the numbers

A snapshot of our innovation ecosystem.

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Saving on pesticide costs for farmers growing Bt eggplant compared to traditional varieties

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Increase in farmers’ net income when growing Bt eggplant

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Higher fruit yield

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