What is the main problem with bokashi composting?Updated 17 days ago
The main problem with Bokashi composting is that the fermented waste cannot be used directly as compost in the garden but must first be buried in soil or added to a traditional compost pile to finish decomposing.
This additional step can be a drawback for individuals without access to outdoor space or a garden.
Other Challenges Include:
Cost of Start-up and Maintenance – Bokashi composting requires the purchase of a specific Bokashi bin and Bokashi bran (inoculated with beneficial microbes), which represents an ongoing cost.
Management of Fermented Waste – After the fermentation process, the pre-compost needs to be handled carefully to avoid disturbing the anaerobic conditions it was created under. The fermented material might also have a strong odor that some people find unpleasant.
Need for Soil or a Garden – The fermented waste needs to be buried in soil to complete decomposition, which can be a significant limitation for people living in apartments or homes without gardens.
Learning Curve – Successfully managing a Bokashi system requires learning how to layer food waste with Bokashi bran effectively and understanding how to maintain the right conditions (e.g., minimizing air exposure, draining liquid regularly).
Liquid By-product Management – Bokashi composting produces a liquid by-product that needs to be drained regularly to avoid anaerobic conditions becoming too acidic. While this liquid can be used as a fertilizer or drain cleaner, managing it can be seen as an additional task.
Why Bokashi Composting is Worth It
For those without outdoor space, alternatives like container gardening or community composting programs can help integrate Bokashi pre-compost into the soil. The initial cost of a Bokashi system is quickly offset by the long-term savings in waste reduction and improved soil health. Additionally, managing the liquid by-product becomes an advantage when used as a nutrient-rich fertilizer or drain cleaner.
Key Benefits of Bokashi Composting
Composts More Types of Waste – Unlike traditional composting, Bokashi can handle meat, dairy, and cooked foods, reducing landfill waste.
Fast and Efficient – The fermentation process with EM® technology speeds up decomposition, making it a quicker alternative to traditional composting.
Soil Health Booster – Bokashi pre-compost introduces beneficial microbes that enhance nutrient availability, improve moisture retention, and support plant health.
Odor Control & Indoor-Friendly – Properly maintained Bokashi bins don’t produce strong odors, making them ideal for use in kitchens and small living spaces.
Eco-Friendly & Sustainable – Diverting food waste from landfills helps lower methane emissions and supports sustainable waste management practices.
With the right approach, Bokashi composting becomes an easy and rewarding way to recycle food waste, improve soil health, and contribute to a more sustainable future. By choosing EM® Bokashi Composting, you ensure a smooth and effective composting process that maximizes benefits while minimizing challenges.