EU Amends Fertilising Products Regulation: New Opportunities for Using Animal By-Products

On 04 March 2024, the European Commission adopted an amendment to the Fertilising Products Regulation (FPR) via the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2024/1682. This amendment is set to reshape the fertilising products market for manufacturers who use animal by-products (ABPs) in their fertilisers, biostimulants, and soil improvers.

Background: FPR and ABPs

The FPR, which came into effect in July 2022, was designed to simplify and standardise the rules for fertilising products across the EU. This regulation aims to promote a circular economy and ensure consistent quality and safety standards. However, until recently, the list of approved ABPs under Component Material Category (CMC) 10 for use in CE-marked fertilisers remained empty.

The amendment now officially includes processed manure under CMC 10, marking a significant first step towards expanding the range of approved ABPs. Other materials, such as insect frass, processed animal protein, meat and bone meal, blood products, horn products, etc are currently under consideration for future inclusion.

What this Means for Manufacturers:

Manure-based products that meet the CMC 10 criteria can now obtain the CE marking and be freely traded within the EU without the need to comply with additional national regulations. This harmonisation simplifies market access, facilitates trade, and opens up new possibilities for growth and expansion.

The FPR does not replace national regulations. Manufacturers can still choose to market their products under their respective national rules if they prefer or if their products do not meet the FPR specifications. This flexibility allows manufacturers to choose the most suitable route for their specific products and target markets.

Key Requirements for Processed Manure under CMC 10:

To be approved for use in fertilisers, processed manure must undergo specific treatments to ensure safety and quality. It must first reach a defined endpoint in the manufacturing process, often through composting or anaerobic digestion, to eliminate pathogens.

Afterwards, further processing is required to either refine the material's texture, reduce weed seeds, or achieve stability comparable to compost. Additional permitted processes include adjusting nutrient levels and altering the physical form of the material.

Additives are allowed under certain conditions, and products containing processed manure must include specific labelling information.

The FPR is an evolving regulation, with future updates expected to expand CMC 10 to include other ABP types. These updates will likely introduce specific endpoint and processing requirements for each type of ABP, similar to those already in place for processed manure.

Expert Support Available:

ARCHE Consulting is ready to support you in bringing your manure-based and other fertilising products to the EU market. We provide comprehensive regulatory and technical support to ensure your products meet the evolving FPR requirements, whether you opt for the EU-wide or national regulatory pathways.

Partner with us to turn your regulatory challenges into growth opportunities!