Scientists Turn Whey Waste into Sustainable Biofuel

Researchers at Heriot-Watt University in Scotland, working with space technology company Take Root Bio, have developed a novel process to convert salty whey—a by-product of cheese production—into a sustainable biofuel capable of heating homes or powering vehicles. The innovation targets one of the dairy industry's most challenging waste streams, with the UK generating around 95,000 tonnes of salty whey annually, much of which is difficult and costly to dispose of due to its high salt content. Using a bio-based process, the team extracts energy from the sugars present in whey, transforming a low-value by-product into a renewable energy source.

While whey has previously been used to produce bioethanol, the researchers say this latest approach demonstrates new potential for valorising dairy waste and advancing circular economy practices. However, widespread adoption may be constrained by the growing global demand for whey proteins in nutrition products, which has pushed prices higher and tightened supply. The development highlights how innovation is creating new value from dairy by-products while supporting sustainability and waste reduction across the dairy industry. (The Guardian)

Source: Dairynews7x7 5 Aug, 2026 Read full story here

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