DuPont announced today it has purchased Hybrinova S.A., the hybrid wheat subsidiary of Lafarge S.A., located near Paris, France. Hybrinova includes R&D capabilities, a patented chemical hybridising agent, a hybrid wheat seeds business, and a staff of over 30 individuals. Terms of the purchase were not disclosed.

Hybrinova uses traditional wheat breeding methods coupled with tissue culture and the use of its proprietary chemical hybridising agent to develop hybrid wheat with superior qualities. In France, Hybrinova produces and markets several varieties of hybrid wheat that provide higher yields than traditional varieties while maintaining comparable quality characteristics. A number of new hybrids are in advanced stages of development. Hybrinova has established research relationships with leading seed companies throughout Europe. The plan is to extend the hybrid wheat business beyond France in the near future.

This investment is the most recent in DuPont's path toward becoming a global agricultural enterprise, integrating crop protection products, enhanced value crops, and a collaborative business system that adds value at all production levels of the food chain.

According to William F. Kirk, DuPont Agricultural Enterprise Senior Vice President, "The purchase of Hybrinova will strengthen DuPont's ability to meet consumer demands for  value-added wheat products in Europe and build upon our purchase of the Cereals Innovation Centre. We continue to aggressively seek to satisfy consumer needs for wholesome, healthy, and natural food ingredients."

DuPont previously announced a research alliance and marketing joint venture involving corn and soybean products with Pioneer Hi-Bred International, the world's largest seed company. DuPont also acquired Protein Technologies International, the world's leading supplier of soy proteins to the food and paper processing industries. Earlier this year, DuPont purchased the Cereals Innovation Centre in England, with wheat-based food ingredient businesses.

DuPont is a global life sciences, chemical, and energy company.

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