SOLASTA Bio Submits New Peptide Insecticide for Approval

The company seeks U.S. regulatory clearance for a novel biochemical insecticide targeting aphids and whiteflies.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Organic Food

Bold flat-color editorial illustration featuring geometric plant leaf structures in red, cream, and sage, representing agricultural biochemical innovation. — SOLASTA Bio has formally submitted its new peptide-based insecticide to the Environmental Protection Agency for regulatory approval in U.S. vegetable crops. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you believe bio-based insecticides are a safe and effective replacement for traditional chemical pesticides?

SOLASTA Bio has formally submitted a peptide-based insecticide for registration with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The product aims to control aphids and whiteflies in vegetable crops and leafy greens.

Why it matters

The submission addresses the need for new pest control options as conventional chemical restrictions tighten. If approved, the insecticide could provide growers with an alternative mode of action for managing pest resistance.

SOLASTA Bio completed a $14 million Series A funding round in 2024 to support its development. The EPA has classified the company's lead peptide as a biochemical active ingredient for use against aphids and whiteflies.

The players

SOLASTA Bio

This biotechnology company focuses on developing peptide-based insecticides as sustainable alternatives to conventional chemical pesticides.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

This federal agency is responsible for reviewing and registering new pesticide products to ensure they meet safety and efficacy standards.

California Department of Pesticide Regulation

This state agency oversees the registration and use of pesticides within California to protect public health and the environment.

The details

The company submitted regulatory packages for the peptide ingredient and its first end-use product following successful greenhouse and field trials. SOLASTA Bio is also seeking recognition from the Insecticide Resistance Action Committee for the product's unique mode of action.

The company completed a $14 million Series A funding round in 2024.
A field demonstration event took place in Georgia in early October 2026.
The regulatory submission was reported on October 28, 2026.

Culture Shift

The push for peptide-based products follows the Insecticide Resistance Action Committee mode of action classification protocols for new agricultural tools. This shift reflects a broader transition toward sustainable biological alternatives as farmers face increasing restrictions on legacy chemical pesticides.

Successful registration of this product could eventually lead to new pest management options for commercial vegetable and leafy green growers. These biological alternatives may reduce the reliance on conventional chemical sprays used in large-scale food production.

The takeaway

Peptide-based insecticides represent an emerging category of biological pest control for commercial agriculture. Growers should monitor regulatory updates to see if these tools become available for their integrated pest management programs.