Potash

	What is K?			Role			Manufacturing
	Potassium is the seventh most abundant element in the earth's crust and is found in every cell of plants and animals. Potassium helps plants grow strong stalks, in the same way that calcium gives people strong bones. More than 85 percent of the body's potassium is found in the muscles, skin, blood, digestive tract and liver.			Potassium protects plants from extreme temperatures and helps them to fight stress, disease and pests such as weeds and insects. Potassium stops wilting, strengthens roots and stems, and assists in transferring food. It activates plant enzymes and ensures the plant uses water efficiently. Potassium contributes to making the food you buy fresh.			Fertilizer producers mine potassium, or potash, from naturally occurring ore deposits that were formed when seas and oceans evaporated, many of which are covered with several thousands of feet of earth. Once the ore is brought to the surface, unwanted minerals are removed in the manufacturing process and the product is then granulated for application.

Quick K Facts

• Potash ore reserves have been identified in 21 countries worldwide according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Currently the economic extraction of potash is limited to only 12 countries. Consequently, most countries have to rely on imports to meet demand. Potash is imported by 99 countries worldwide as over 80 percent of world potash production is exported.
  
• China is the largest importer of potash. The United States is the second importer of potash, representing over 85 percent of our supply.
  
• Most of the world's potash deposits are found in Canada, Russia, Belarus, Germany and the United States.
  
• Did you know? Individuals who are advised to restrict their sodium intake often use potassium chloride to season food in the place of common table salt. This is the same potassium chloride found in the commercial fertilizer.

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