Suterra, the global leader in sustainable pheromone pest control, has announced that its CheckMate® Puffer® OFM-O is now officially listed with the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) for use in organic agricultural production. This certification further enhances the Puffer® OFM-O’s reputation, making it easier for organic growers to comply with certification standards on their harvested fruit. While the Puffer® OFM-O has been approved for organic use by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) since 2017, the OMRI certification simplifies the process for organic producers aiming to meet consumer demand for certified organic products.

Meeting the Growing Demand for Organic Stone Fruit

With the rising demand for organic stone and pome fruits such as peaches, pears, nectarines, plums, and apples, Suterra’s Puffer® OFM-O provides growers with a critical tool to manage pests sustainably. One of the most significant threats to these crops is the Oriental fruit moth (Grapholita molesta). This pest can cause devastating economic losses as its larvae burrow into fruit, leading to reduced yields and damaged crops.

Carlos Bassa, Senior Director of North America at Suterra, emphasized the importance of this certification: “The OMRI certification of our Puffer® OFM-O makes life easier for organic growers and the pest control advisers who support them. We share their dedication to environmental stewardship and are excited to help them meet the growing consumer demand for high-quality, organic stone fruit.”

Innovative Pheromone Technology

The CheckMate® Puffer® OFM-O utilizes advanced pheromone technology to disrupt the mating cycle of the Oriental fruit moth. By mimicking the natural sexual pheromones of female moths, the Puffer® confuses the males, preventing them from locating their mates. This disruption in the reproductive cycle ultimately reduces moth populations and minimizes crop damage without harming beneficial insects, making it an ideal solution for organic and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs.

One of the key advantages of using pheromone-based pest control methods like the Puffer® OFM-O is the reduced need for traditional chemical insecticides. As Natalia Gamarra-Cockle, Suterra’s Business Development Manager, noted, “Organic growers have an ever-shrinking toolbox of pest control options despite the growing consumer demand for organic fruit.” The Puffer® OFM-O offers organic growers a highly effective, sustainable solution that aligns with the increasing demand for organic produce.

Reducing Chemical Resistance and Ensuring Sustainability

Another critical benefit of the Puffer® OFM-O is its ability to help prevent the development of resistance to chemical insecticides. By offering a non-toxic, pheromone-based alternative, growers can reduce their reliance on chemical sprays, thus prolonging the efficacy of traditional pesticides. This is especially important for organic growers, who have limited options when it comes to pest control.

Gamarra-Cockle further explained Suterra’s commitment to providing innovative solutions: “At Suterra, we provide crop protection retailers with the two things they want most: in-demand solutions that meet grower needs and a reliable, predictable supply chain.”

Supporting Organic Farming Standards

With OMRI certification, the Puffer® OFM-O becomes a trusted tool for organic farmers who are committed to sustainable practices. The product joins Suterra’s extensive portfolio of organic-certified solutions, helping growers implement eco-friendly methods that meet market demands without compromising on crop health or environmental sustainability.

As consumer interest in organic produce continues to rise, the Puffer® OFM-O offers a proven solution for growers across the United States. It is available in California, Colorado, Hawaii, Michigan, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Washington, and can be purchased through Suterra’s network of suppliers.

For a full list of Suterra’s organic products and more information about the CheckMate® Puffer® OFM-O, visit Suterra’s Organic Products Page or contact customercare@suterra.com.

About Suterra

Suterra, part of The Wonderful Company, is the global leader in pheromone pest control. With 40 years of innovation, Suterra develops environmentally sustainable solutions used in agriculture across six continents. From research and development to large-scale pheromone synthesis and manufacturing, all aspects of Suterra’s business are housed in its state-of-the-art facility in Bend, Oregon. For additional information, visit Suterra’s website.

Source- Suterra