A high nitrogen content (46%N) makes urea the most important nitrogen fertiliser in the country. Ammonia and carbon dioxide are used in the manufacturing of urea. Besides being used in the crops, it is also used in livestock feed to replace part of the protein requirements. Additionally, it is an important ingredient in the production of plastics. Despite the fact that urea is often the most cost-effective way for farmers to get nitrogen, special precautions must be taken when applying it to soil to prevent a chemical reaction that might lead to nitrogen loss.