Aarhus University Assessed Recycled Phosphorus Safety
Researchers found low heavy metal levels in phosphorus recovered from sewage sludge via the Ash2Phos process.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Organic Food
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Aarhus University has released a risk assessment of phosphorus recovered from sewage sludge, finding that heavy metal levels fall below EU safety limits. The findings support potential changes to European Union legislation that currently prohibits using recycled wastewater phosphorus in animal feed.
Why it matters
Updating these regulations could reduce European dependence on phosphorus imports from Russia and Morocco. As the EU classifies phosphorus as a critical raw material, finding secure, high-quality domestic sources is a priority for the region's agricultural stability.
Researchers measured heavy metal concentrations against established regulatory safety thresholds for feed-grade phosphates. The Ash2Phos process specifically produces RevoCaP by extracting phosphorus from incinerated sewage sludge ash.
The players
Aarhus University
This public research university located in Denmark operates the Danish Centre for Food and Agriculture.
European Food Safety Authority
This agency provides independent scientific advice and communication on risks associated with the food chain in the European Union.
Danish Veterinary and Food Administration
This Danish government agency is responsible for animal health and welfare as well as food safety standards.
Swedish National Veterinary Institute
This Swedish government agency focuses on the detection and control of infectious animal diseases.
The details
The study conducted by the Danish Centre for Food and Agriculture confirms the material meets strict safety standards for contaminants. Complementing this, a 2023 assessment by the Swedish National Veterinary Institute found that the risk of infectious pathogens in Ash2Phos-recovered phosphorus is negligible.
Timeline
The Swedish National Veterinary Institute completed its pathogen risk assessment in 2023.
Aarhus University released the results of its phosphorus risk assessment on October 13, 2026.
Culture Shift
This research reflects a broader societal push toward circular economy models that minimize reliance on finite, imported resources. By proving the safety of reclaimed waste, the study marks a move away from linear consumption patterns toward sustainable, self-sufficient agricultural systems.
Changes to feed regulations could eventually influence the cost and sourcing of animal products by creating a more stable, domestic supply chain for fertilizers and feed components. Consumers may see higher availability of sustainably produced goods if the EU moves to approve recycled nutrients.
The takeaway
The research highlights that modern recycling technologies can achieve high purity levels previously thought unattainable for waste-derived products. Advancements like the Ash2Phos process demonstrate that strict safety standards can be maintained while expanding circular resource use.
Further reading
Learn more about sustainable farming practices in the Organic Food section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by National Hog Farmer.
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