Newspaper in compost - ink issues?

brownfrog

SAMHP wrote: »

Having taken the 'Master Composters' course (seriously!!) I was asked the question re the ink on paper by someone and as it obviously had serious consequences if I got the answer wrong (!) I contacted the Henry Doubleday Research Assocation which is where we did our training. They confirmed that the inks used in print production today are, apparently, non-toxic, so should not present a problem.
And yes, wee is a very good accelerator, but use it watered-down cos it's pretty strong stuff!
SAM

If you're shredding your own printouts, the same goes for inkjet ink and laser toner - they're all fine.

stilernin

olibearhorse wrote: »

only man wee though - don't go using girly wee, we are too hormonal apparently... :rotfl:

Including us 'old girls'?

SAMHP_2

Doesn't matter how old we are, we can still be hormonal - or at least that what's I keep telling my OH!
SAM

masser

You might like to know that residue from the "de-inking" process from probably the largest recycling paper mill in Uk is bunged on a lorry and dumped on farmland in Cheshire and North Wales. According to the bigwig professor that the mill owners employed to write the paper, the residue makes an ideal soil conditioner. The Environmental Health Officer I spoke to, chose to differ. I would not worry about the odd bit in your compost

Jem8472

I work in newspaper printing and have never seen any health and saftey warnings about the ink. It gets everywhere but does not cause any problems with contact with skin, unlike other chemicals we use!

valk_scot

I shred most paper for the composter but I've always steered clear of shiney paper with coloured inks, as I was under the impression this wasn't so good for you and the veg. I may be a decade or so out of date with this theory though.

Incidentally shredded newspaper + grass clippings + wee (any variety) makes really nice compost. I do most of my composting at the allotment but make the paper/grass combo in the two house composters, to use up the grass clip.