A biological slurry additive distributed by organic waste stream solution company Epizym Ltd could help farmers meet the proposed NVZ regulations without additional slurry storage investment.

The additive, tested in the UK and abroad, contains bacteria which use the slurry as a food source. They break down the particles to produce a consistent and runny mix, virtually eliminating crusts and putting floor solids into ‘suspension’ within the mix itself. This produces a liquid, easy to handle organic fertiliser, thus maximising capacity in a storage system over a closed spreading period through reducing the solid matter that remains in the store after emptying. 

Liquid slurry greatly reduces the time and costs of mechanical mixing with fewer blockages and ensures a more even application of nutrients when spreading. Crust removal also means flies have nowhere to land to lay their eggs and so fly populations are virtually eliminated.

The additive is proven through Silsoe’s Olfactometer Unit to halve noxious gases, helping farmers to avoid complaints from the local community and improve atmospheres within buildings for animals and workers. Indole, skatole and organic amines, three of the most potent and offensive odours in slurry, are reduced to odourless compounds by the bacteria.

Supplied in powder form in 1kg containers, it is rehydrated with water and applied to the liquid fraction of the store.