A new research collaboration in Western Australia is aiming to transform beer by-products into new food and fibre products, creating fresh market opportunities for the State’s craft brewing sector.
In a news release, the governments said the Value Adding to Brewery Spent Grain project will focus on finding innovative uses for brewer’s spent grain (BSG), such as ready-to-eat foods, ingredients, health products and plant-based leather.
The WA Government has committed $660,000 towards the $1.24 million initiative, which is being delivered in partnership with the End Food Waste Cooperative Research Centre.
Science and Innovation Minister Stephen Dawson said the project demonstrated how WA’s research sector could support sustainable industry growth.
“Tapping into the potential of brewer’s spent grain for food and fibres opens up new commercial pathways for brewing, food and biomaterials sectors made here in WA,” Dawson said.
“The Cook Government is proud to be supporting this project. WA is home to an outstanding community of scientists, researchers and innovators whose expertise is driving initiatives like this forward.”
Australian brewers generate more than 300,000 tonnes of BSG every year, with around 20 kilograms of the high-fibre by-product created for every 100 litres of beer brewed. Most of it is currently used for low-cost animal feed or sent to landfill.
Led by ChemCentre, the project brings together Curtin University and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, alongside industry partners including the WA Brewers Association, Spinifex Brewing Co, Nanollose and Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery.
Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis said the initiative supported the WA Craft Beer Strategy’s vision for a sustainable and prosperous industry.
“The Value Adding to Brewery Spent Grain project is an exciting initiative that extends beyond the paddock to pint experience, supporting the WA Craft Beer Strategy’s vision for industry prosperity, innovation and sustainability,” Jarvis said.
“This research will explore how WA craft beer, already an incredible example of a value-add product, could have further value-add potential for WA growers and brewers.”
End Food Waste Cooperative Research Centre chief executive Tristan Butt said the project could make a significant contribution to cutting waste.
“Each year, Australia’s brewing industry generates enough spent grain to cover Kings Park – that’s a nutrient-rich by-product that too often goes to landfill,” Dr Butt said.
“Repurposing it into food, nutraceuticals and sustainable materials cuts this waste and unlocks new value. It’s a positive step, taking us closer to our goal of halving food waste by 2030.”
Further details about the project are available at www.chemcentre.wa.gov.au/value-adding-to-brewery-spent-grain.
