Dutch startup Green4Health has been granted a subsidy to develop a new tomato variety, tailored for cultivation in a climate cell without daylight. The breeding company focusses on the development of new tomato varieties that have specific characteristics which contribute to healthy aging. The breeding company is now receiving a subsidy for the development of a ‘plug-and-play’ production method for tomatoes in growth cells.
"Tomato cultivation in growth cells (indoor, vertical farming) takes place fully automated under LED lighting with optimal growth conditions. High insulation of the growth space leads to minimal energy consumption and the production potential near the consumer reduces transport mileage. Production with this technique is also possible in dry or urban areas and therefore of importance to world food issues," as is explained by the providers of the subsidy.
The breeding company operates on a small scale and is not yet commercially active. The first varieties were registered in 2014.