Researchers at the Siberian Federal Center for Agricultural Biotechnologies, part of the Russian Academy of Sciences, have developed an innovative complex fertilizer derived from poultry manure that aims to restore soil vitality. This new product is described as capable of reducing the presence of certain human pathogens in soil, including salmonella and E. coli, while supporting plant health. The development was shared with socialbites.ca by representatives of the SFSC RAS.
A key feature of this fertilizer is the repurposing of poultry manure that would otherwise be discarded. It is combined with inline sterilization processes and the addition of probiotic organisms to create a practical soil amendment. The approach seeks to balance nutrient delivery with microbial safety, offering a potentially more sustainable option for farmers by recycling waste streams and reducing reliance on synthetic inputs. The SFSC RAS team notes the importance of controlled processing to minimize risks and maximize beneficial microbial activity in the soil environment. (Source: SFSC RAS)
Soil in various regions can encounter contamination from solid and liquid wastes, agricultural residues, and wastewater from industrial and meat-processing facilities. Slaughterhouses, tanneries, and textile plants can introduce bacterial and other hazardous materials into the soil, creating a potential pathway for disease organisms to spread. This reality underscores the ongoing need for safe soil management practices and technologies that can mitigate pathogen transmission while preserving soil structure and fertility. (Source: SFSC RAS)
Under natural conditions, soil exhibits self-cleaning properties and nutrient cycling that support plant growth. However, anthropogenic pressures—such as improper waste disposal, urban runoff, and intensive farming—can erode these natural capabilities. Restoring soil resilience has become a priority for researchers and farmers alike, as healthier soils contribute to better water retention, reduced erosion, and improved crop yields. The new fertilizer concept contributes to this broader goal by aiming to restore microbial balance and nutrient availability in a safe, controlled manner. (Source: SFSC RAS)
Researchers from the Federal Scientific Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences have demonstrated that specific groups of pathogens associated with bird droppings can influence soil dynamics. When managed correctly, these microbial communities may help suppress certain harmful bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli. The resulting fertilizers are designed to target these risks while supporting crop growth. Yet, the practical impact tends to be focused on particular pathogen profiles, which means comprehensive soil health benefits depend on integration with broader soil management practices and crop systems. (Source: SFSC RAS)
Through careful selection and combination of beneficial microbes found in poultry manure, the scientists have created a cost-effective, versatile fertilizer. The product shows potential for use across diverse crops and soil types by adjusting the composition of microbial groups to suit local conditions. Current testing is ongoing on a farm in Tatarstan to assess performance, compatibility with different soils, and resilience under real-world farming practices. The goal is to deliver a fertilizer that supports soil biology while meeting practical farming needs. (Source: SFSC RAS)
In related work, researchers in the region previously explored bio-based approaches to understanding how microbial ecosystems influence learning and problem-solving in animals, reflecting a broader interest in integrating biotechnology with agricultural science. Such studies contribute to a wider context of innovation in the field and underscore the importance of translating laboratory insights into field-ready solutions for farmers and land managers. (Source: SFSC RAS)