Environment-friendly fertiliser rights secured

Media Release

7 December 2006

Ballance secures New Zealand rights to manufacture environment-friendly fertiliser alternative

Ballance Agri-Nutrients has purchased the rights to be New Zealand’s primary manufacturer and distributor of BioPhos, a biologically released phosphate fertiliser, considered to be a more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional phosphate fertilisers.

BioPhos is made by a low-moisture composting process in which ground phosphate rock, sawdust, and a fish-based nutrient solution with specific fungi are combined together under controlled conditions.

BioPhos has been produced in New Zealand for a number of years by Pacific BioFert, and has been growing in popularity, both locally and in Australia. An agreement formalising Ballance’s right to manufacture and distribute the product has recently been finalised between the two companies.

Ballance Agri-Nutrients Head of Business Development Peter Mourits says the company recognises the growing interest in alternative fertiliser products and Bio-Phos provides farmers with an excellent alternative to conventional phosphate fertilisers that is environmentally friendly.

“BioPhos is a product with a loyal following that is growing across a number of agricultural sectors in New Zealand. Ballance is continually looking at new products for farmers which will assist them meet their changing needs and allow them to continue to farm in a sustainable way that achieves optimal productivity.”

Ballance Head of Agro-Sciences Warwick Catto says the fungi and bacteria in Bio-Phos potentially stimulate plant growth.

“The product is pH neutral so it is seen as kinder by some to the soil microbial community,” says Warwick. “The phosphorus in the product is also less water-soluble than conventional superphosphates, reducing the risk of run off. Bio-Phos also has higher phosphorus content than standard single superphosphates.”

ENDS

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