Compost using reject kiwifruit

KVH has recently received a Plant and Food Research report about the trial of manufacturing compost using reject kiwifruit (and associated debris) mixed with wood pulp.

The report found the compost tested ‘not-detected’ for Psa-V and that kiwifruit seed was destroyed during the composting process.

The Kawerau-based manufacturer is seeking to ramp up production of compost using reject kiwifruit, and to sell the product to primary producers, including kiwifruit orchardists, in the Bay of Plenty.

KVH has amended its protocols around movement of compost containing kiwifruit material so an approval can be given to compost manufacturers on a case by case basis, as long as the product meets criteria including Psa-V not-detected and kiwifruit seed destruction.

KVH and the Bay of Plenty Regional Council have been supportive of this research as increasing quantities of reject fruit for composting will likely reduce the amount of fruit available to birds resulting in further wild kiwifruit populations. There is thought to be about 60,000 tonnes of reject fruit produced from Bay of Plenty post-harvest companies.

KVH has received numerous enquiries from compost suppliers in the last month. KVH is continuing to work with Zespri’s OPC to develop a KiwiTech Bulletin providing guidance around suitable compost compositions and distribution protocols.

John Mather, KVH Biosecurity