Start-ups are redefining the food industry landscape by focusing on upcycling by-products from rice, barley, and soy. These side-stream innovations are not only reducing food waste but also offering functional ingredients for various food applications.
With a significant portion of food going to waste globally, the need for sustainable practices in food production is more crucial than ever. The agri-food sector’s impact on the environment, coupled with the rising global population, is driving innovators to explore alternative ways to utilize food chain by-products.
One such innovation involves the transformation of soybean pulp, known as okara, into a high-protein, high-fiber flour suitable for gluten-free applications. Renewal Mill, based in California, has pioneered the conversion of organic soybean pulp into a versatile flour that can be used in a wide range of food products, from cookies to bread.
By partnering with tofu and soymilk manufacturers, Renewal Mill has found a sustainable solution to repurpose soybean by-products efficiently. The company’s approach not only addresses food waste but also contributes to the development of eco-friendly ingredients for the food industry.
Meanwhile, Rise Products in New York is focusing on brewers’ spent grain, a prevalent by-product of the beer brewing process. By converting barley flour into a nutritious ingredient, Rise Products offers a sustainable alternative for various food applications, including baked goods, bread, and pasta.
Italian start-up RiceHouse is taking a different approach by utilizing rice husks and straw to develop eco-friendly building materials. By repurposing organic residues from rice production, RiceHouse is pioneering sustainable construction methods that reduce environmental impact and promote energy efficiency.
Planetarians, another innovative start-up, is leveraging sunflower oil by-products to create high-protein ingredients using advanced technology. By sterilizing and functionalizing fiber-rich materials, Planetarians offers a cost-effective solution for the food industry, with applications ranging from baked goods to alternative meat products.
These initiatives highlight the growing trend of upcycling food chain by-products to create valuable ingredients that benefit both the environment and the food industry. By turning waste into functional resources, start-ups are paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient food production system.
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