Mars Teams Up with Pairwise to boost climate-resilient cocoa using CRISPR technology 

USA – Global confectionery company Mars has entered into a partnership with biotech firm Pairwise to accelerate the development of more resilient cacao plants through CRISPR-based gene editing.  

The move aims to safeguard global cocoa supplies amid rising climate threats and agricultural challenges. 

Through the collaboration, Mars gains access to Pairwise’s Fulcrum platform—a toolset that includes a vast library of plant traits and gene-editing capabilities. The platform will allow Mars to improve crop sustainability by targeting traits such as disease resistance and tolerance to heat and drought. 

CRISPR, a precision gene-editing technology, enables quick and accurate alterations to DNA. In agriculture, it is increasingly used to enhance crop resilience and reduce reliance on traditional breeding methods, which can be time-consuming.  

Pairwise noted that CRISPR allows for more precise trait development in a shorter time frame. 

Mars, known for brands like M&M’s, Snickers, and Twix, aims to use this collaboration to strengthen global cocoa supply chains by creating cacao plants better equipped to handle environmental stressors.  

The partnership comes as the chocolate industry faces growing concerns over climate change, crop diseases, and sustainability. 

In a related development, Mars announced in July a US$2 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing through 2026. This includes US$240 million earmarked for a new Nature’s Bakery facility in Utah, projected to generate over 230 jobs and produce up to one billion bars annually. 

Mars has invested $6 billion over the past five years to grow its manufacturing network. It is also pursuing the acquisition of snacking giant Kellanova for approximately US$36 billion. The deal would expand Mars’ brand portfolio to include Cheez-It, Pringles, Pop-Tarts, and Eggo. 

CRISPR’s growing role in agriculture mirrors its expanding applications in healthcare, including the recent FDA approval of a gene-editing therapy for sickle cell disease. 

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.