ChemCentre is proudly leading new research to transform brewer’s spent grain (BSG) – a major by-product of beer production – into high-value, sustainable products, supported by a $660,000 investment from the Cook Government in partnership with the End Food Waste Cooperative Research Centre.
The three-year project will explore how BSG, which is currently used mainly for low-cost animal feed or sent to landfill, can be converted into valuable products such as ready-to-eat foods, nutritional supplements, prebiotics, and plant-based leather.
For every 100 litres of beer brewed, around 20 kilograms of wet BSG is produced. Across Australia, this amounts to more than 300,000 tonnes annually.
Although rich in protein and fibre, BSG’s full potential has not yet been realised. ChemCentre will deliver the first-ever detailed chemical composition and nutritional profile of Australian BSG, identifying the nutrient components, aromas and flavours that determine how it can be used in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and biomaterial industries.
Curtin University will trial innovative, eco-friendly processing technologies — including reverse osmosis, pulsed light combined with ultrasound, and microwave-assisted extraction — to enhance the recovery of proteins, flavours and flavonoids from BSG.
ChemCentre Project Lead and Senior Scientist Dr Manjree Agarwal said the project demonstrates how technical, detailed science can deliver real commercial outcomes.
“By unlocking the value of brewer’s spent grain, we can help reduce food waste, support innovation in Western Australia’s craft brewing sector, and create exciting new products for market,” Dr Agarwal said.
ChemCentre is leading the project in partnership with Curtin University and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD). Industry partners include the WA Brewers Association, Spinifex Brewing Company, Nanollose Ltd, and Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery.
The project was officially launched at Gage Roads Brew Co by the Minister for Regional Development; Ports; Science and Innovation; Medical Research; Kimberley, Hon. Stephen Dawson MLC, and the Minister for Agriculture and Food; Fisheries; Forestry; Small Business; Mid West, Hon. Jackie Jarvis MLC.
ChemCentre CEO Paul Nicholls stated that the project was a strong example of collaboration between science and industry.
“ChemCentre is proud to lead this national-first project, showcasing how WA science can deliver innovation with real commercial outcomes. With strong collaboration from our partners, this initiative is closely aligned with our mission to support Western Australia’s economic development.”
By applying advanced research and strong industry collaboration, this initiative will support Western Australia’s brewing industry, reduce waste, and create new pathways for sustainable, value-added products and a sustainable future
