Compost testing

Compost contributes to the organic matter content and stimulates soil life.

Improve soil fertility with high-quality organic matter input

Compost strengthens soil health by increasing organic matter, stimulating biological activity and improving structure. Through compost analysis, Eurofins Agro Testing provides insight into compost quality, so growers can apply material confidently and effectively.

Bekijk het Compostverslag

What is compost testing?

Compost testing determines the quality and fertilising value of compost used in agriculture and horticulture. It shows how much organic matter and nutrient content compost contributes to the soil and whether the material supports long-term fertility goals.

Eurofins Agro Testing offers compost testing for various compost types and application systems.

Why compost quality matters

Compost supports healthy, resilient soil, especially now that fertilisation standards are becoming more restrictive. Because composition differs between farms, suppliers and storage sites, assumptions can lead to under- or over-application.

High-quality analysis helps growers:

Support soil organic matter levels
Improve nutrient cycling and structure
Avoid uncertainty in fertilisation planning
Apply compost more efficiently and purposefully

When to use compost testing

This analysis is valuable when evaluating compost batches, selecting suppliers or planning application rates per field. It supports sustainable soil management and long-term productivity by providing measurable quality insights.

Testing packages and analysis options

Eurofins analyses compost in accordance with the requirements laid down in the Dutch Fertilisers Act (Meststoffenwet) for trade and transport purposes. In addition, we also test for requirements that go beyond statutory regulations and are included in certification schemes based on the needs of market participants. For example, we offer analyses for the well-known Keurcompost certification scheme.

Methods

Eurofins Agro analyses samples using prescribed and validated methods. Each method applied is briefly described on the analysis report. The report also indicates which methods are accredited by the Dutch Accreditation Council (Raad voor Accreditatie). These accredited methods can be identified by the addition of a Q after the method code.

For a detailed explanation of all methods used, please visit our Accreditation page, where the document “Methods for Compost Analysis” is available. This document provides additional information to complement the details shown on the analysis report.

Standards

For the compost packages listed below, Eurofins Agro reports guideline and limit values on the analysis report for:

Soil package parameter
Visible contaminants
Heavy metals
Sewage sludge
These requirements fall under the Dutch Fertilisers Decree (Uitvoeringsbesluit Meststoffenwet).

Conformity

To assess conformity with these requirements, the analytical result is compared directly with the applicable limit values. Measurement uncertainty is not taken into account in this conformity assessment.

Parameters analysed in compost testing

Compost analysis provides insight into nutrient value and organic matter composition to support reliable application and soil improvement decisions. Including contaminants surface determination parameters, heavy metals, stability testing and potentially harmful weed germination.