Eden Mill, an independent Scottish distillery, has partnered with MiAlgae, an Earthshot Prize finalist biotech company, to repurpose whisky distillation by-products for growing Omega-3-rich microalgae.
This innovative process offers a sustainable alternative to wild-caught fish, which are currently overfished to meet global Omega-3 demand.
MiAlgae’s cost-effective, scalable solution cultivates algae using whisky effluent, providing a circular approach to Omega-3 production.
Eden Mill has installed an effluent storage tank at their distillery near St Andrews, with plans to resume distillation in early 2025 and welcome visitors from spring onwards.
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Commenting on the partnership, Rennie Donaldson, Chief Executive Officer at Eden Mill, said: “We are delighted to announce our long-term partnership with MiAlgae, making use of their advanced bio-technology to create sustainable Omega-3 from our distillery’s effluent waste.
“Sustainability is a hugely important part of our distillery plans, and for our business as a whole, so the team are excited to see a by-product given an environmentally friendly second-use.”
Douglas Martin, Founder and Managing Director at MiAlgae, said: “By partnering with Eden Mill, we will use nutrients from their distillery by-products to grow our eco-friendly Omega-3-rich microalgae.
“We’ll also upcycle the effluent to clean water. Their shared commitment to sustainability aligns perfectly with our mission to advance biotechnology for good.”
MiAlgae, a Scottish biotech firm, has achieved two significant milestones recently. Firstly, it has been named a finalist for the Earthshot Prize, an environmental award established by Prince William to recognise innovative solutions to global ecological challenges.
Secondly, the company has secured £14 million in funding to expand its operations and increase production to meet growing worldwide demand.
Meanwhile, Eden Mill is developing a new distillery that will produce both gin and single malt Scotch whisky.
The facility will include a retail space, cafe, and a top-floor bar offering views of the Eden Estuary. Further information about the visitor centre and booking options will be available in the near future
