More Successful Agriculture, Thanks to the Antimicrobial Power of Hydrogen Peroxide and Peracetic Acid
These two active oxygens, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and peracetic acid, are excellent for maintaining hygienic conditions in agriculture. Take, for example, drip irrigation in greenhouses, orchards, and field crops. These systems save resources for sure, yet they can be susceptible to the slow buildup of pathogens or biofilms. But not with active oxygens. Adding H2O2 or peracetic acid to water systems helps keep them clean, keep germs at bay, and secure crop yields. Other areas also benefit from the antimicrobial power of these chemistries – namely, harvesting fruits and vegetables, farming livestock, and even barley malting.
Active Oxygens Support Food Security
This is an important issue, as a growing world population is reliant on sufficient yield and minimized food loss.
But Wait — Do We Really Need Chemicals in Agriculture?
There are good reasons why hydrogen peroxide and peracetic acid are excellently suited for agriculture. They are made up entirely of biodegradable components — water, oxygen, and vinegar — while combating germs and pathogens extremely effectively. For example, in drip irrigation systems, dirt and algae can accumulate over time, creating an entry point for pathogens that can reach the plants. But not with hydrogen peroxide and peracetic acid. These active oxygens reliably keep the systems clean, are safe for crops (when dosed correctly, of course), and are a good alternative to chlorine. This makes the two chemistries a sought-after factor in agriculture. With them, germs and pathogens have less chance of diminishing crop yields. Additionally, fruits and vegetables remain fresher for longer when their washing water is enriched with active oxygens.
Livestock operations benefit as well…
Livestock farming benefits from the cleaning power of peracetic acid, too. Peracetic acid can help contain sources of infection in dairy cattle, pigs, and poultry. The fact that peracetic acid leaves no chemical residues makes this chemical applicable for organic farms. Stables and enclosures can be pre-treated, and water systems and milking equipment can be disinfected. This way, farmers can keep pathogens under tight control.
… as do malters and breweries
Even barley infested with Fusarium fungi can be treated with peracetic acid so that it can be used for malting. This is due to peracetic acid’s antimicrobial action, which significantly reduces both the fungus itself and any already formed mycotoxin. The fact that peracetic acid also combats other fungi, bacteria, yeasts, and viruses makes its use interesting for operators of grain mills and large bakeries. This results in a notable decrease in crop losses.
ACTIVE OXYGENS DECOMPOSE INTO WATER AND OXYGEN—UNLEASHING THEIR DISINFECTING POWER IN THE PROCESS
Agriculture and Active Oxygens: A Good Match
After all, H2O2 and peracetic acid effectively combat pathogens of all kinds. And once they have eliminated unwanted contaminants, they leave no residues that could harm plants or animals.
