Do worms destroy pathogens in human manure?

by Dr. Paul
(Vietnam)

What about pathogens in human manure? Do worms destroy all pathogens?

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Jul 16, 2018
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starstarstarstarstar 		Re: Do worms destroy pathogens in human manure?
by: Stephan

Hello,

thank you for your interesting question. Many people are concerned about the pathogens in human manure which could indeed be very harmful if they where not removed.

Amazingly according to studies conducted in the US compost worms like the famous Red worm "Eisenia fetida" are able to remove large amounts of pathogens like E. coli, Salmonella typhi, Vibrio cholerae, Hepatitis A and others. Their remaining feces ie: worm castings are according to this study safe to handle. You will find some more information about the subject in a link that you can find at the bottom of this message.

If you want to want to eliminate virtually all harmful pathogens you can let the worm castings mature for up to 24 month before you use them.

For more information about the save handling of human waste you could have a look at the "Humanure Handbook" from Joseph Jenkins.


http://www.vermico.com/journal-publishes-study-of-worms-reducing-human-pathogens-in-biosolids/


Kind regards

Stephan Kloppert

Author of "How to start a profitable worm business on a shoestring budget"

Editor of www.worm-composting-help.com

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How worms recycle human manure