Fertiberia launches NSAFE bio-inhibitor in Germany and Netherlands

Fertiberia has introduced its NSAFE bio-inhibitor technology to Germany and the Netherlands, marking its first expansion beyond the Iberian Peninsula after earlier commercialization in Spain and Portugal. The rollout will be led by Van de Reijt Meststoffen, the group’s Dutch subsidiary, as nitrogen use efficiency and soil health remain central to agricultural policy in both countries.

The company describes NSAFE as the first microbiological nitrification inhibitor designed to reduce nitrogen losses while preserving soil biodiversity. Developed over more than six years, the patented technology works differently from conventional chemical inhibitors by acting on nitrate rather than ammonium, temporarily incorporating nitrogen into microbial biomass before releasing it back into the soil. Fertiberia said this mechanism allows for a more gradual nutrient supply, helping improve crop uptake and limiting losses from leaching and volatilization.

Field and laboratory trials conducted with institutions including Wageningen University, Ghent University, and Spanish National Research Council indicate reductions in nitrogen leaching of around 20% and cuts in nitrous oxide emissions ranging from 20% to 60%. More than 70 field trials also showed gains in nitrogen use efficiency averaging 70%, alongside yield increases exceeding 7% in arable crops and higher gains in woody and horticultural systems.

NSAFE will initially be incorporated into two products in Fertiberia’s Nergetic Complete range. The company said the expansion aligns with its broader strategy to scale lower-carbon crop nutrition technologies across Europe, as regulators and farmers face increasing pressure to reduce emissions and nutrient losses while maintaining productivity.