Fatty Acid Formation during Composting of Separately Collected Organic Household Wastes

▪ Recent studies indicate that fatty acids are formed in significant concentrations during the composting of organic household residuals. Their presence may be one major reason for depressed germination and seedling development that often result following application of compost. Experimental results in Sweden indicate that at least five to six months should elapse before low levels of fatty acids for cropping are reached in the composts. Further research on fatty acid formation is recommended.