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Chiquita has completed the Yelloway banana pan-genome, a scientific milestone designed to accelerate the development of disease-resistant and climate-resilient bananas.
The pan-genome, created through Yelloway, a joint venture between Chiquita and Dutch plant genetics company KeyGene, captures the full genetic diversity of Musa acuminata, the species underpinning widely grown varieties such as Cavendish and Gros Michel.
By mapping naturally occurring genetic variation in high resolution, the pan-genome enables more precise breeding decisions, supporting the development of bananas better able to withstand Fusarium wilt Tropical Race 4 (TR4) and Black Sigatoka – two major diseases costing the global industry more than $100 million annually in protection measures.
Oxford Nanopore sequencing technology underpinned the project, with cross-industry partners – including Innocent Drinks via its Farmer Innovation Fund – contributing expertise and funding.
Chiquita plans to provide academic researchers with access to the pan-genome through a dedicated portal, promoting industry-wide collaboration and accelerating banana breeding research.
“This pan-genome provides a high-resolution map of the banana genome,” said professor Gert Kema, board member of Yelloway. “It allows us to explore the full genetic landscape and deploy the most relevant material to combat disease threats.”
Fernando Garcia-Bastidas, head of Yelloway’s breeding programme, added that the tool dramatically accelerates the development of varieties suited to a changing climate while meeting consumer expectations.
Chiquita highlighted the milestone at Fruit Logistica in Berlin, reinforcing its strategy of science-led innovation and collaboration across the banana supply chain.
The move positions Chiquita as a leader in banana innovation, supporting both growers and retailers by safeguarding long-term supply while aligning with sustainability and quality commitments under the brand’s 'Behind the Blue Sticker' initiative.