Double strand RNA (dsRNA) has been used to trigger RNAi phenotypes in various targeted pests, including insects, fungi, and weeds. However, numerous studies have shown that the susceptibility of the target pests to dsRNA and the field efficacy of such triggers are highly variable. The underlying reasons behind such variability can be traced to the fact that dsRNA is a substrate of ubiquitous enzymes that degrade it (RNases) and that it is a hydrophilic salt with poor transport properties across the biological membranes it must cross to enter the RNAi pathway. Addressing such limitations, NanoSUR has prepared novel proprietary materials (MdsRNAs) by the facile modification of 2’OH groups in previously transcribed dsRNA using modifiers in List 4B of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). We have shown in the laboratory that, depending on the 2’OH modifier, MdsRNAs are more resistant than dsRNA to degradation by RNases and that they bind to a greater extent to biological membrane mimics. We have also demonstrated that MdsRNA is more resistant than dsRNA to environmental degradation in the field and more efficacious in laboratory and field studies against pests refractory to dsRNA-triggered RNAi phenotypes, e.g., lepidopteran. NanoSUR’s proprietary manufacturing methods of MdsRNA are cost effective for agricultural applications and as such will enable their use to control a wide range of pests in a safe and sustainable manner.