Now that biofuels are turning into big business, there is more scrutiny being placed on the production of these alternative fuels, and their overall impact on the environment. A new study published this week raises questions about the consistency of biofuel blends, and suggests that closer regulation of the industry is needed to ensure consumer confidence and level the playing field for biofuel distributors and manufacturers.

While biofuel blending is an integral part of the production process, some biodiesel blends don’t contain the advertised amount of biofuel, according to a study by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. Pure biodiesel (B100) is a chemically prepared mixture of animal fats and vegetable oils, and it is often used in modified diesel engines. Biodiesel “blends” combine B100 with traditional petroleum-based fuels so they can be used in regular diesel engines. Most blends are either 5 or 20 percent biodiesel, and labeled as B5 and B20.

When researchers sampled blends from more than a dozen distributors across the United States, they found that the actual percentage of biofuel ranged from as little as 10 percent to as much as 74 percent in blends advertised as B20. Only 10 percent of samples met the specifications for biofuel blends required for vehicles of the U.S. Department of Defense, one of the leading consumers of the products.

Although there is an enforceable standard for pure biodiesel, there is currently no method of enforcement in the U.S. to ensure that blends are done correctly. And if all this "splash blending" isn’t done accurately, there can be nasty consequences down the line.

Improper blending of biofuels could lead to engine problems for drivers in cold climates because it can freeze or clog fuel lines. There is also a consumer confidence issue, and implications for the taxation and tax credits for biofuel providers and consumers.

Like any young industry, biofuel is going to have some growing pains, but it’s a good sign that there is more attention and scrutiny on the manufacturing and distribution process. Hopefully, all these problems will be worked out sooner than later, so by the time I build out my biodiesel El Camino, I won't have any worries when I head to the pump.