‘Contaminated’ agricultural diesel may cause problems in machinery

TRACES of bacteria were found in 25% of agricultural diesel samples tested in a nationwide survey commissioned by the IFA.

Diesel samples taken in counties Cork, Monaghan, Offaly, Wexford and Waterford showed high levels of bacteria, particularly yeasts and moulds which cause clogged and slimy filters, excess smoke and loss of engine power.

IFA environment and rural affairs chairman Pat Farrell said it was alarming that one-in-four samples tested did not achieve basic diesel quality standards. Sediment and dirt particles were seen in samples from Laois, Sligo and Waterford.