Key Takeaways:
- Windfall Bio conducted a greenhouse trial of its methane-derived organic fertilizer, Foundation, in collaboration with Ag Metrics Group, focusing on leafy greens such as lettuce.
- The product demonstrated nitrogen availability and uptake comparable to premium plant-based fertilizers, and higher than animal-based fertilizers like blood and bone meal, according to the study.
- Foundation is made without animal byproducts and contains 11% nitrogen, designed to meet food safety standards and reduce potential risks of contamination.
- The fertilizer is produced using a microbial process that converts methane into nitrogen-rich biomass, offering a slow-release formulation aimed at reducing nutrient runoff.
- Windfall Bio plans to begin field trials and expand industry engagement, following recent milestones including OMRI certification and recognition from industry publications.
Greenhouse Trial Evaluates Methane-Based Organic Fertilizer from Windfall Bio
Windfall Bio (Profile), a company developing methane-based agricultural inputs, has reported the results of a recent greenhouse trial of its organic fertilizer product, Foundation. The trial was conducted at Ag Metrics Group, a research and consulting firm in California, and focused on evaluating nitrogen performance on leafy green crops.
The trial findings suggest that Foundation provided higher nitrogen uptake than animal-derived fertilizers and similar results to premium plant-based options such as soybean hydrolysate. The product is positioned as a non-animal-derived alternative for growers seeking organic inputs with consistent nutrient performance.
Product Features and Intended Use
Nitrogen Content and Soil Health Considerations
Windfall Bio states that Foundation contains 11% nitrogen, a low salt index, and a high amino acid profile. The company indicates that the product is suitable for organic systems requiring compliance with standards such as the Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement (LGMA). Foundation is formulated to support nutrient uptake, plant metabolism, and soil microbial activity.
The fertilizer is produced without animal byproducts, which may reduce the risk of pathogen contamination and support certain food safety protocols.
Fertilizer Made Using Methane Conversion Technology
Microbial Process and Environmental Considerations
The product is created using methane-consuming microbes developed by Windfall Bio. These microbes convert methane into a biomass high in nitrogen-rich amino acids, which is then processed into a slow-release fertilizer. According to the company, this process helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and may lower the risk of nitrogen leaching and runoff.
Next Steps For Windfall Bio: Field Trials and Market Engagement
Windfall Bio plans to expand testing through field trials across multiple crop types, to evaluate nutrient release and in-field performance under various conditions. The company is also engaging with potential partners, including growers, distributors, and food sector stakeholders, to assess commercial interest and application opportunities.
“We’re building a new standard for organic fertilizer — one that’s safer, cleaner, and better for both the soil and the climate,” said Josh Silverman, CEO of Windfall Bio, in a statement.
Windfall Bio Recent Milestones and Industry Recognition
Recent developments for the company include:
- OMRI certification for its OptiMem seed culture, confirming eligibility for organic use
- Commercial-scale production of its methane-consuming microbes
- Recognition from TIME and Fast Company, including listings on their respective innovation rankings
