UV Light Farming

Ultra violet light is an essential component for sustaining life on the Earth’s surface. It is under the spectrum of light that cannot be seen by the human eye, and is classed as a form of radiation. Artificial UV has been used across different industries, like tanning beds, or in the medical field. The most common application for UV Light Farming is to remove pathogens from the water supply. There are 3 classifications of UV, and not all of them are safe for prolonged human exposure.  

UVA  

Ultraviolet A is the longest-wavelength form of ultraviolet radiation, with a wavelength range of 320 to 400 nanometre. It is used for its penetrative abilities, and not commonly in a farm setting. UVA is used more in crime scene investigations, and checking if a painting is real.  

UVB 

Ultraviolet B is a form of ultraviolet radiation with a wavelength range of 280 to 320 nanometres, which is in between UVA and UVC. The most common application for UVB would be regarding water treatment to disinfect water without using harsh chemicals. UVB can also be used to kill pathogens on the plants themselves. As UVB can cause health problems in people, you would usually apply UVB when no one is working on the crops. 

UVC 

With a shorter wavelength range of 200 to 280 nanometres, UVC is safer to use than the others, but still requires care when using it. UVC is used for water treatment as well, but also for surface sterilisation, including equipment. UVC is a great way to sterilise packhouses between operations, as to kill the pathogens, without using harmful chemicals. One other application for This UV Light Farming option is in post-harvest preservation. UV light can be used to extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables by reducing the growth of microorganisms that cause spoilage. 

Is UV Light Farming organic farming approved? 

UV light can be used in organic farming in the UK. However, its use must be in compliance with the regulations set by the UK’s organic certification bodies, such as the Soil Association or the Organic Food Federation. These organisations set standards for the production and labelling of organic food, and the use in UV Light Farming must be consistent with these standards.

The Soil Association

For example, the Soil Association allows the use of UV Light Farming for the treatment of seeds and for the preservation of produce, as long as it does not involve the use of synthetic chemicals or substances that are harmful to human health or the environment. With LiveFarmer, you can easily track how much UV light has been used, in order to keep complaint, and provide traceability documents.  UV Light Farming