NH3 ADDITIVE

Renders anhydrous ammonia ineffective for meth production

The Fertilizer Industry Methamphetamine Task Force has announced it is optimistic about the discovery of an additive that renders anhydrous ammonia ineffective for the illicit production of methamphetamine.

Anhydrous ammonia, which supplies one of the three basic plant nutrients, is a highly beneficial fertilizer for the production of food and fiber. Its theft for the production of the illegal drug methamphetamine is of paramount concern to the fertilizer industry.

The additive was identified by researchers at Iowa State University. Following the success of the university's tests regarding the additive's efficacy, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) conducted further tests regarding the additive's ability to inhibit the use of ammonia for the production of methamphetamine. The task force met in Kansas City to discuss DEA's preliminary results and final testing is anticipated in the near future.

The fertilizer industry appreciates the support it has received from U.S. Senators Charles E. Grassley (R-Iowa) and Tom Harkin (D-Iowa) to fund research at Iowa State University, and the dedication of the Iowa Department of Agriculture and the Iowa Office of Drug Control Policy throughout this ongoing process.

The Fertilizer Industry Methamphetamine Task Force represents the producers, distributors and retailers of anhydrous ammonia fertilizer in North America. The task force works with federal and local law enforcement agencies, as well as researchers and industry professionals in an effort to deter the theft of anhydrous ammonia for the production of methamphetamine.