Recently we’ve had a number of customers who are working to use waste products from the food industry. It has been fascinating to learn about the research that is going into optimising the value of crops. Further, this work is reducing the strain on landfill.
Food Waste
Food waste is a hot topic in the media, and for good reason. Millions of tonnes of food is wasted each year in the UK by both the food industry, and household waste. Together we are learning how to cut down our waste. For example, by buying only what we need, changing how food products are labelled, and redistributing surplus food.
But what about non-edible food waste produced in the manufacturing of food and products? There is a massive amount of waste produced worldwide such as spent grain from distilleries. For example: animal products such as blood, bones, hair and offal that is produced by the meat industry; orange peel and residue following juice extraction; potato peelings; sugar beet pulp; coffee grounds… the list goes on. Much of this waste is used for animal feed or composting, with some other specific uses.
What are some current management options for waste products?
Animal feed and composting are two of the main side stream options for food waste. Additionally there are a number of other (unexpected) uses, including:
Whey: Can be used for microbial cultures, fermentation and production of peptides and glucose.
Egg shells: Source of calcium for animal feed. Also filler for plastics
Blood: Pharmaceutical uses and anaerobic digestion
Bones: Production of chemicals such as glues and detergents, gelatin, and gel products
Worldwide, there is ongoing research across a variety of sectors into side-stream options for realising the full potential of crops to ensure maximum yield and usage.
Read more about how food waste is being reduced in Europe: https://wrap.org.uk/resources/guide/refresh
Richmond Scientific: Enable Scientific Discovery
At Richmond Scientific we’re passionate about keeping second hand laboratory equipment in circulation and out of landfill. By refurbishing used lab equipment and selling it at a fraction of the cost of new, we aim to help ensure equipment is accessible for labs of all sizes, with all budgets. Speak to us on 01257 270433 about how we can support your business.
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