7 pressing questions about MPF seed coatings

1. Are there microplastic-free (MPF) seed coatings available for all crops?

Yes, in principal there are. But varieties of a crop can vary, e.g. maize can have very different surfaces (less oily or more oily) or roughness/form. So even if there is a film coat which works very well for several varieties of a crop, it is possible that some varieties aren’t properly provided for currently. It will require time before there are acceptable MPF alternatives for all varieties and crops.

2. Are there high-performing MPF seed coatings for cereals?

As it happens, Incotec is launching an MPF Disco (film coat) for cereals next month (April 2026). A cost-effective seed safe film coat with good application quality and low dust off. Being compatible with most PPPs, it brings seed treatment within reach for every cereal producer. Wet-flow, dust-off and germination tests show results that are comparable or even slightly better when compared with conventional market standards. transitioning products from microplastic-containing to microplastic-free might take (up to) 5 years and having them reregistered could take a further 3 years. This is the reason that a transition period of 8 years in total was granted for plant protection products.

3. Are the MPF coatings compatible with all plant protection product packages?

There are many different PPP packages on the market. Furthermore, preferences of colour, shine and dust-control are often different, which means there are many different combinations possible. So, it’s unlikely that there will be optimal alternatives for all PPP packages. It will be quite some time before all potential combinations can be treated optimally, and realistically we may even have to accept that challenging combinations which are difficult to apply might remain.

4. What is the best way for me to make the transition to MPF?

We advise you to test various available options first in a lab environment and then scale up to a seed treatment facility. Ideally, you perform tests under various environmental conditions, like different temperatures and humidity levels. It is also smart to start testing and validating the potential products well on time so that if there are any unfortunate surprises, you still have time to test other solutions.

5. Are microplastic-free seed coatings more expensive?

Like Incotec, most producers of MPF film coats are determined to keep the prices similar to those of conventional film coats. We all want to increase the acceptance of the MPF alternatives, not just in Europe but preferably beyond.
Besides that, the costs for film coating are a relatively small part of the total cost for farmers. Farmers pay for the seeds, the plant protection package and the film coat. Despite the small costs, a good film coat will make or break the appearance of the seed as well as the performance of the PPP and its impact on the environment, factory workers or farmers.

6. Will MPF seed coatings have a different impact on yield?

Film coating itself has a positive impact on yield. Seed germination, uniform loading of plant protection products to safeguard against diseases and insect attacks, and consistent sowing performance are all critical factors for achieving an optimal field stand. These parameters are intrinsically linked to securing yield potential.

At Incotec MPF Disco products undergo extensive testing to ensure that germination rates, seed treatment distribution, and sowing performance remain uncompromised compared with conventional film coating products that contain microplastics. Growers can rely on MPF Disco to deliver the same agronomic performance while meeting modern sustainability standards.

7. Will MPF seed coatings have an impact on the treating and sowing process?

No, there will be no impact on the treating and/or sowing of the seed. Treatment of seeds with MPF film coats will be identical to treatment with conventional film coats, and the same is true for sowing.