PAS110 Digestate testing
PAS110 digestate testing – coming early 2027
The production of anaerobic digestate is rapidly increasing, driven by the growing demand for renewable energy and the transition toward a circular economy. Digestate is valued as a nutrient-rich soil conditioner that offers a sustainable alternative to fossil-derived fertilisers. However, before it can be applied to land, it must meet specific quality standards to ensure its safety and reliability.
Why PAS110 matters
PAS110 is the recognised UK standard that sets out the minimum quality digestate must meet before it can be applied to land and carry a nutrient value. It’s the difference between an expensive waste and something that can be applied to land and potentially traded.
Why work with us to test your anaerobic digestate?
Hutton Scientific Services is working towards becoming one of the very few laboratories in the UK recognised under the Biofertiliser Certification Scheme (BCS) for PAS110 digestate certification, and we will be the only one in Scotland. We aim to provide this service from early 2027.
Geographically closer
Our laboratories are based in Aberdeen, significantly reducing transport time and cost for many AD sites across Scotland and northern England.
One team, from sample to field-ready evidence
In addition to providing certification, we can also carry out field trials demonstrating the efficacy of anaerobic digestate or other organic material that might previously have been described as waste.
Credibility that carries weight
Our work is backed by the scientific authority of The James Hutton Institute, a global leader in soils, crops and sustainable land use.
“We’re proud to be bringing a PAS110 testing facility to Scotland. It’s a huge step forward for the circular economy and for businesses looking to make better use of their waste.”
Gareth Newman, Business Development Manager, James Hutton Scientific Services
What we can do for you
PAS110 certification
Accredited analysis against the PAS110 specification, covering key nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium alongside the parameters linked to product safety and quality, with clear reporting to support your certification through the Biofertiliser Certification Scheme.
Sample packing kits
To make the process smoother and simpler, we will send out packing kits for you to pack your anaerobic digestate and inoculum samples into, ready to be returned to us.
What’s in your packing kit
- Labelled sample containers for anaerobic digestate and inoculum samples
- Secure, leak-resistant return packaging suitable for courier transport
- Clear sampling and packing instructions to keep your results accurate
- Sample submission paperwork, pre-filled with your booking details
Kits are posted out once your booking is confirmed, so you have everything you need on site before sampling begins.
Crop trials that demonstrate value
Our world-class facilities include:
- Small-scale, controlled glasshouse trials
- Full outdoor field trials
- Vertical farm systems for year-round testing
Testing of other organic materials
If you are looking to apply other waste-derived materials to land, we provide the analytical evidence SEPA requires to consider approval.
