Mars Inc. Partners with Pairwise to Enhance Cacao Production Using Gene-Editing Technology

In a groundbreaking move to bolster cacao production, Mars Inc. has officially licensed innovative gene-editing tools, company officials announced on Wednesday. This initiative aims to combat rising costs and environmental challenges affecting cacao crops globally.

Access to Cutting-Edge CRISPR Tools

As part of this partnership, Mars will gain access to Pairwise’s advanced CRISPR technologies, including the SHARC enzyme, along with a variety of additional enzymes, trait libraries, and gene-editing tools. This technology is expected to revolutionize the way cacao plants are cultivated and managed.

Addressing Global Cacao Challenges

The chocolate industry has faced escalating costs for cacao in recent years, driven by a combination of environmental factors in tropical regions where cacao trees are grown. By genetically modifying cacao plants to increase their resilience against harsh weather, diseases, and other environmental stressors, Mars aims to mitigate some of the increasing pressures on the crop.

Supporting Global Supply Chains

Carl Jones, Director of Mars Plant Sciences, emphasized the potential impact of CRISPR technology on global supply chains. “We believe that CRISPR can support and strengthen global supply chains,” he stated. “Our focus is to transparently and responsibly conduct CRISPR research in plant science that helps crops better adapt to climate challenges, disease pressures, and resource constraints.”

Innovative Solutions for Agricultural Challenges

In line with this vision, Ian Miller, Chief Operating Officer at Pairwise, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration. “Plant breeding innovation has the potential to help address important agricultural challenges,” he said. “We look forward to supporting Mars’ research goals.”

This partnership marks a significant step towards sustainable cacao production and highlights the role of gene-editing technology in modern agriculture. As both companies move forward, the implications for the chocolate industry and global food supply chains could be profound.