Origene Seeds: 20 Years of Vision and Global Innovation

An Interview with Founder Dr. Eyal Vardi

When a local company marks two decades of growth and innovation, it’s a milestone worth celebrating. We sat down with Dr. Eyal Vardi, founder and owner of Origene Seeds, to look back on the company’s journey—from a bold idea to a global player in the seed industry.

Planting the Seed
Origene Seeds was founded in 2004 by Dr. Vardi and Dov Godinger with a clear vision: to create a seed company built on innovation. “We believed the world always seeks better products—even if they look different at first,” says Vardi. Their focus from day one was to develop unique, high-performing varieties that offered real advantages in taste, yield, and durability.
They started strategically with cucurbits—less crowded than other vegetable crops like tomatoes or peppers. Early revenue came from licensing partnerships with established seed firms. Once their proprietary lines were ready, they went big, targeting major growers in North and Central America. “If a product succeeds with large farms, the potential is enormous. That bet paid off,” Vardi notes.

Milestones and Expansion
In 2016, private equity firm Fortissimo Capital joined, enabling significant investment in labs, a seed processing plant, warehouses, and global breeding programs. “That partnership helped us scaling up quickly and professionally,” says Vardi.
Growth came steadily. The acquisition of ‘Catom’ added specialty melons like ‘Piel de Sapo’ and ‘Pearlina‘. Later, Origene acquired Samco’s pepper breeding program, opening a new product category.
The company also entered tomato breeding five years ago, and this year marks the commercial launch of its first varieties.

Pearlina Melon, ‘Pioneer Pearl’: Vibrant Color and Flexible Harvest Timing

Leading with Innovation

Innovation has always defined Origene Seeds. One standout example: transforming Israel’s melon market. “We introduced Galia melons with orange flesh—better taste, longer shelf life. Today, nearly all Galia melons in Israel have orange flesh. That shift started with us and we continue to lead this segment
In watermelons, Origene Seeds pioneered seedless varieties with dark-striped rinds. The breakthrough variety Maxima set a global standard: deep red color, high lycopene, rich flavor, and excellent yields. Today, this type dominates global seedless watermelon production. Origene Seeds is also a leader in personal-sized watermelons.
In pumpkins, the company introduced chestnut squash to the Israeli market—a long, complex effort that paid off. “Our innovation is aimed at fulfilling needs and pain points across the entire chain: growers, marketers, and consumers all need to benefit.”

‘Alon’ Watermelon: Consistent Quality, Exceptional Taste, and Powdery Mildew Tolerance

Global Reach and Steady Growth
That philosophy has driven steady growth, averaging 15% annually. Origene Seeds now employs over 100 people and operates subsidiaries in the U.S., Mexico, and Spain. It sources seeds from more than 20 suppliers and runs breeding stations in several countries, with core breeding based in Israel.
Infrastructure has expanded accordingly. Last year, Origene Seeds doubled its factory and made a robust investment in automation, including AI systems for seed sorting, processing, and testing. “This ensures even greater consistency and quality.”

Quality and Sustainability
“Seed quality—physical and genetic—is non-negotiable,” emphasizes Vardi. Origene’s lab, certified by ISO and the Israeli Ministry of Plant Protection, ensures rigorous standards and production in disease-free areas.
Sustainability is also a top priority:
• Developing disease-resistant varieties to reduce pesticide use.
• Using biodegradable treatments and eco-friendly packaging.
• Shifting to green energy across operations.
“We believe demand for sustainable solutions will only grow,” Vardi says.

Melon Field. OriGene Seeds PR

Farmer-Focused and Future-Ready
Understanding farmers’ needs is at the heart of the company’s work. “We maintain close relationships with growers worldwide, often anticipating their needs years ahead—often in coordination with retail chains,” says Vardi.
Looking ahead, Origene Seeds is expanding in Europe through its Spanish subsidiary and building its presence in Turkey, Italy, North Africa, and the broader Mediterranean.
R&D continues to focus on taste, texture, and nutritional value, alongside yield. The company is also developing varieties for semi-arid climates to meet the growing challenge of water scarcity.

Investing in the Next Generation
Vardi is also attuned to a wider concern: fewer young people are entering agriculture. “It’s a global trend, but agricultural genetics still attracts talent. We support students through scholarships and training—that’s how we invest in the future.”
Two decades in, Origene Seeds isn’t just celebrating the past. It’s building the future of agriculture—one seed at a time.

Photos: OriGene Seeds PR