Overview of the Fertiliser and Feed Testing Programme
The Department is actively monitoring fertiliser products, including protected urea, to ensure compliance with Irish and EU rules on nutrient content, labelling, and safety. Using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), authorities determine the presence of urease inhibitors in urea-based fertilisers, specifically N-(n-butyl) thiophosphoric acid triamide (NBPT) and N-(n-propyl)thiophosphoric acid triamide (NPPT). This rigorous testing helps farmers receive products with accurate nutrient claims and verified performance.
Fertiliser Testing Results for 2025
To date in 2025, 23 samples of protected urea have been tested. Of these, one sample (4.3%) was provisionally found to be “out of tolerance” and is under investigation. The department notes that these checks extend beyond chemical content and include conformance with labelling and minimum nutrient requirements.
Alongside protected urea, the department collects samples of fertiliser products placed on the market to ensure overall compliance with both national and EU legislation. Parameters assessed include nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels, with results guiding regulatory action as necessary.
Scope of Animal Feed Quality Testing
In tandem with fertiliser oversight, the department oversees animal feed quality to protect food safety, animal health, and environmental integrity. Feeding stuffs controls are designed to be comprehensive, covering the entire feed chain—from importation to on-farm use. This ensures products are accurately labelled, meet minimum standards, and remain fully traceable.
Data from 2025 show active engagement in feed controls: 1,031 samples were taken to verify compliance, and roughly 10,000 individual tests were conducted on these samples. Tests encompassed a broad range of analyses, including protein and ash content, as well as screening for undesirable substances and other contaminants.
From these efforts, about 50 out of tolerance results were identified, representing approximately 0.005% of tests. The department has proactively followed up with the implicated companies to address these out-of-tolerances and restore safety and quality across the sector.
Regulatory Context and Ministerial Updates
The minister highlighted that the testing regime is part of a robust framework to protect both consumer health and agricultural productivity. By verifying product composition and labels, authorities help farmers optimize crop yields while avoiding misleading claims. The approach combines state-of-the-art laboratory analysis with on-the-ground inspections and traceability measures to ensure accountability throughout the supply chain.
Implications for Stakeholders
For fertiliser manufacturers and feed suppliers, the findings reinforce the need for rigorous quality control and transparent documentation. Farmers benefit from clearer information about product content, enabling better decision-making regarding application timing and quantities. In cases of out-of-tolerance findings, companies are expected to implement corrective actions and, if necessary, recall or adjust affected lots to comply with regulations.
What This Means Going Forward
As the 2025 testing programme continues, the department will maintain strict oversight of fertilisers and feeding stuffs. Continued vigilance is essential to prevent non-compliant products from entering the market and to uphold high standards in food safety, animal welfare, and environmental protection. Stakeholders should monitor updates from the department and engage promptly with any notices or corrective directives.
