| Title | Testing protocol ensures the authenticity of organic fertilizers |
|---|---|
| File Options | PDF | Additional Information |
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Repository View: https://ucanr.edu/repository/a/?a=128339 Direct to File: https://ucanr.edu/repository/a/?get=128339 |
| Abstract | There is a pressing need for methodology to confirm the authenticity of fertilizers labeled “suitable for organic production.” In this study, we developed a testing protocol that can be used by laboratories and regulatory agencies to detect adulteration of organic fertilizers and soil amendments with a synthetic nitrogen source. By conducting an extensive literature review and analysis of 180 commercially available raw materials, organic fertilizers, soil amendments and synthetic fertilizers, we compiled a comprehensive database of quantifiable properties of those materials. We analyzed their ammonium content, C:N ratio and stable nitrogen isotope ratio, and for each metric we set thresholds that flag products with a high probability of adulteration. The protocol can be used to authenticate organic fertilizer products and bring transparency to the industry. |
| Authors |
Mukome, Fungai N.D. : F.N.D. Mukome is Postdoctoral Scholar in Environmental Soil Chemistry, UC Davis
Doane, Timothy A. : T.A. Doane is Assistant Specialist, UC Davis
Silva, Lucas C.R. : L.C.R. Silva is Postdoctoral Scholar in Plant and Soil Stable Isotope Applications, UC Davis
Parikh, Sanjai J.
Associate Professor
Soil Chemistry: nutrient cycyling, contaminant transport, carbon cycling, soil remediation, biochar use in agricculutre, biochar for environmental remediation, soil amendments, food safety
Horwath, William R.
AES Professor of Soil Biogeochemistry Soil Biogeochemist
Stable isotope studies, soil organic matter dynamics, soil fertility, sustainable agriculture, water quality, plant-microbe interactions, soil microbial biomass, denitrification, residue decomposition, root turnover. |
| Publication Date | Oct 1, 2013 |
| Date Added | Dec 3, 2013 |
| Copyright | © The Regents of the University of California |
| Copyright Year | 2013 |
| Description | After analyzing 180 fertilizer materials and products labeled as organic, the authors developed a set of metrics that indicate probable adulteration by synthetic nitrogen. |
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