Pre-clinical testing is under way on BAT’s potential vaccine for COVID-19 which uses fast-growing tobacco plant technology, according to a company press release.

British American Tobacco is developing a potential vaccine for COVID-19 through its bio-tech subsidiary, Kentucky BioProcessing (KBP). BAT says it could get between 1 and 3 million doses of the vaccine produced beginning in June, if the pre-clinical tests go well and there is enough support from the right partners and the government.
The vaccine uses BAT’s fast-growing tobacco plant technology which is safer, faster and more effective than conventional methods used. KBP is a commercial operation but will work on the COVID-19 vaccine project on a non-profit basis, according to the press release.
Dr David O’Reilly, Director of Scientific Research, BAT said, “Vaccine development is challenging and complex work, but we believe we have made a significant break-through with our tobacco plant technology platform and stand ready to work with Governments and all stakeholders to help win the war against COVID-19. We fully align with the United Nations plea, for a whole-of-society approach to combat global problems.”