Shamus,
I know my profile says I'm a newb -- which, to the forum, I am, but I have used and continue to use Fox Farms products somewhat myself, so hear me out;
I read last year on some other forum that Fox Farm has changed much of their ingredients. After much deliberation and arguing between know-it-alls on said forum (not rollitup, don't worry haha), I contacted Fox Farms myself. Here's what I concluded:
They said that none of their products have changed, and I believe them. Their nutrients still have the same ingredients, HOWEVER I also agree with other Fox Farm customers that the Grow Big and Big Bloom do seem more watery and maybe lighter in color, so that may not end speculation (perhaps they're the same ingredients, just diluted and more cheaply-manufactured?) I didn't notice any differences in results from the lighter nutes, but I also don't use them anymore either though, so. . . . Also, FYI Tiger Bloom is NOT organic -- the packaging says it is made with organic material, but it has other chemical additives as well, which may or may not affect microbes in the soil.
Now, onto a more interesting subject: the soil.
I still occasionally use FF soils, and when I had someone with FF on the phone, I did get them to admit that their soil processing plant did indeed move to a different part of the country, and the manufacturing process has inevitably changed as well. Same ingredients, different process and location. Now, what that means for us is, if the soil is produced in an area with more extreme temperature, humidity, and air exposure, then the viability of the end product -- regardless of what it's made with, how it's made, or whose name goes on it -- will be affected. Fox Farm has built a reputation, particularly among cannabis growers, but they are still a company. Changes do happen. I would say, if you're a hardcore FF guy and have used the a lot and know them well and know how to make them work for you, then continue to do so. If you see your results have waned, then the proof's in the pudding buddy. Hope this helps!
J.W.
I've been using this hydro veg product for years and works tremendously well.