Reuben Riley Rampersad
Founder and CEO — a plant physiologist with a PhD specialising in biofertilisers, Reuben developed BioAge's molecular fertiliser technology and leads the company's scientific vision, product development, and commercial growth.
The problem
Rising fertiliser costs and declining nutrient efficiency are squeezing farm profitability.
Farmers are under increasing pressure from rising fertiliser prices, declining nutrient efficiency, and inconsistent crop performance. Conventional fertilisers often lose a significant portion of their nutrients through runoff and leaching, forcing growers to apply more product while still facing lower yields, uneven crop quality, and shrinking profit margins. South Africa's reliance on imported fertilisers makes these challenges even more acute as global supply chain disruptions continue to drive up costs.
BioAge's approach
Smarter fertilisers that work with the plant.
BioAge has developed Nitro-Gro, a next-generation molecular fertiliser that delivers nutrients through highly bioavailable nano-scale ionic complexes designed to improve nutrient uptake at the cellular level. Applied as a foliar spray, Nitro-Gro combines precision nutrients with bio-stimulant compounds that enhance photosynthesis, energy production, and metabolic activity, enabling crops to absorb nutrients more efficiently while reducing dependence on conventional fertilisers. Farmers benefit from stronger plant growth, improved crop quality, earlier harvests, and lower fertiliser input costs.
Where it's used
Supporting commercial agriculture across South Africa.
BioAge's products are already being used by commercial vegetable growers, horticultural producers, flower growers, and other high-value crop farmers across South Africa. The company has established paying customers in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, and the Eastern Cape and continues to expand through a combination of direct sales and distributor partnerships.
Impact
Why it matters.
Helping farmers increase productivity while reducing fertiliser use creates stronger agricultural businesses and more sustainable food production systems.
Improving nutrient efficiency
Enables farmers to reduce conventional fertiliser use while maintaining strong crop performance and healthier plant growth.
Increasing yields and farm profitability
Field trials have demonstrated yield improvements of up to 30%, helping growers generate higher returns from every hectare.
Reducing environmental impact
Lower fertiliser inputs reduce nutrient losses through runoff and leaching while supporting more efficient use of agricultural resources.
Partners & ecosystem
Building commercial partnerships across South Africa.
BioAge works with commercial farmers, agricultural distributors, and technical partners to validate and scale its technology. Distribution partners include Heavitech and KZN Nursery Suppliers, while technical support has come through Savant Capital and Veridian. The company has also participated in the Savant Build Programme as it prepares for broader national expansion.
