December 22, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Lands, and Irrigation has reassured farmers across Sri Lanka regarding the quality of Muriate of Potash (MOP) fertiliser donated by a Russian state-owned company, following concerns raised by the agricultural community.
Farmers and farmer organisations had expressed doubts about the fertiliser, particularly its unusual colour, which led to queries about its suitability for use.
In response to these concerns, the Ministry issued an official statement confirming that the donated MOP fertiliser meets all required quality standards.
After thorough analysis of the composition and various other specifications of the fertiliser, it was found to be fully compliant with established agricultural guidelines.
The Ministry clarified that the colour variation in the fertiliser, which has raised questions, is entirely natural and does not impact its effectiveness. According to the Ministry, the colour is a result of the presence of iron oxide in the mineral salts found in the deposit.
Fertiliser containing iron oxide will appear red, while a lack of this element produces a white appearance. This variation in colour is a normal characteristic of MOP fertiliser and does not alter its core function of providing potassium to crops.
The explanation was supported by the findings of soil scientist Renuka de Silva, whose report confirmed that the fertiliser is both safe and effective for agricultural use.
According to de Silva’s analysis, the fertiliser will deliver the same benefits as any other MOP, ensuring that farmers can use it without any concerns about its performance or safety.
The Ministry’s statement aims to reassure the farming community that the quality of the donated fertiliser is in no way compromised.
It further urged farmers to continue using the MOP fertiliser as part of their routine agricultural practices, stressing that the colour difference is purely cosmetic and does not affect the product’s functionality.
