Soil improvers
“For Renewables, a soil improver is often an organic co-product that improves soil structure and also acts as an organic fertilizer. For arable farmers, soil structure is crucial for water management and healthy soil life, both essential for optimal crop growth,” Hagenbeek explains. Water management is a challenge, as soil must not be too dry or too wet during the growing season. With climate change bringing long dry spells and heavy rainfall, this is increasingly difficult. The European Union promotes the shift to more sustainable farming practices, including the use of organic fertilisers. Under the Farm to Fork strategy, the goal is to reduce chemical fertiliser use by 20% by 2030 and increase organic farmland to 25% of total agricultural area. “And that’s where organic fertilisers come in—such as those derived from plant-based co-products
we’re working with. They improve soil health and reduce dependence on synthetic fertilizers,” says Hagenbeek.
What is VCL-50?
VCL-50 is a liquid fertiliser with a balanced nutrient profile and no solid particles. It’s a clear, brown-colored liquid made from corn steepwater, a co-product from grain starch production. “During the production of VCL-50, the protein remains intact. This protein contains nitrogen (N), a key nutrient for crop growth. Because it’s a clear liquid, users can apply it via drip irrigation or foliar feeding,” says Hagenbeek. “The N-P-K ratio is 3-4-3.5, which aligns well with crop needs.”
Retail demand for sustainable inputs is also growing. Supermarkets include the use of pesticides and fertilisers in their environmental scoring, requiring suppliers to grow fruits and vegetables safely and
sustainably. “They often demand maximum use of organic fertilisers to meet environmental goals. This new product fits well with the needs of retailers and consumers. It’s an organic fertiliser available in full
tankers and IBCs. A major advantage is that it doesn’t produce gas, eliminating leaking packaging. The product also remains stable for two years. These are important factors for retailers to stock it,” Hagenbeek
adds.
Conclusion
“At Renewables, we’re always exploring new applications and formulations of organic fertilisers from co-products. We do this together with Duynie’s technical team. Year-round, we test new circular organic sources to expand our product range. Renewables focuses on the needs of both professional and consumer markets. We see plenty of opportunities here,” Hagenbeek concludes enthusiastically.
