Dominican researchers achieve breakthrough in garlic cultivation

Santo Domingo.- The Institute for Innovation in Biotechnology and Industry (IIBI) and ISA University have made a major breakthrough in garlic cultivation in the Dominican Republic. With funding from MESCYT through FONDOCYT, researchers identified 13 high-quality garlic genotypes grown in Constanza, which show strong nutritional and pharmaceutical potential and are competitive by international standards.

The study enables the production of virus-free, bioactive-rich seeds suitable for export and industrial use. Chemical analysis revealed high levels of beneficial compounds such as allicin, antioxidants, flavonoids, and phenols in some local varieties, paving the way for the creation of value-added products like garlic extracts, powders, and nutraceutical capsules.

This innovation is expected to benefit small and medium-sized producers by improving crop yields and profitability, while also providing the food and health industries with certified, high-quality ingredients. The project strengthens national capacity in plant biotechnology and highlights how applied science can drive sustainable agricultural and industrial development.