State-of-the-art DNA sequencing meets traditional plant breeding: IPK Gatersleben is developing digital tools to breed better pea varieties faster and in a more targeted manner. To do this, the researchers use the world’s largest pea gene bank in Europe and state-of-the-art sequencing technologies to decode the genome of different varieties.

With drones, sensors and artificial intelligence, Anhalt University of Applied Sciences is revolutionizing pea cultivation. The researchers are developing digital methods for plant monitoring and at the same time optimising the cultivation methods for winter and summer peas. A special focus is on the exchange of knowledge between research and agricultural practice.

How do we make the pea fit for climate change?

Scientists are working to increase the pea’s resistance to biotic and abiotic stressors. In doing so, they use innovative approaches that incorporate both genetic diversity and modern breeding technologies to make the pea more competitive. One focus of research at the Julius Kühn Institute is on combating legume fatigue, which affects the yield stability and profitability of pea cultivation. To this end, methods are being developed to test peas for their resistance to legume fatigue.

By adapting to climate change, the pea is to be strengthened as an important source of protein and its role in sustainable crop rotations is to be secured. This is intended to make pea cultivation more attractive and economical in the long term, benefiting both farmers and the food industry.

Regional peas as the basis for sustainable food: Planteneers develops innovative processes for the production of high-quality, tasteless texturates from pea protein. Texturates improve the texture and chewing sensation of a product when applied. Together with highly fortified protein products, they form the basis for the development of a new generation of plant-based alternatives to meat, fish and dairy products for the region and the whole of Germany.