Development of a biosecure carcass composting method using a fermentation system containing hyper-thermophilic microorganisms

Recent intensive livestock production has made domestic animals vulnerable to infectious diseases such as foot and mouth disease. Infected animals and nearby animals are culled and then buried or incinerated to prevent the spread of the disease in most countries, including South Korea. The burial of animal carcasses in the soil may produce side effects, such as the production of leachate and odors, and could potentially spread infectious diseases. This study tested YM microorganisms, which mainly contain hyper-thermophilic organisms that can degrade pig carcasses and inactivate pathogenic microorganisms. An experimental burial system installed with an aeration facility was developed, and the decomposition effects of YM microorganisms were verified using pig carcasses. Pig carcasses were almost completely decomposed in 30 days without leachate, and all experimentally inoculated pathogens were completely inactivated by YM microorganisms. The final composites were satisfied with all inspection criteria for using the byproduct as fertilizer after an additional 34 days of composting. In conclusion, the newly developed hyper-thermophilic YM microorganism system may produce biosecure fertilizers from animal carcasses.