Anheuser-Busch Explores Bio-Refining of Beer Waste

Anheuser-Busch has signed a memorandum of understanding to begin development of a bio-refinery pilot project at one of its North American facilities that would convert byproducts from the beer brewing process into commercially viable bio-chemicals.

Blue Marble Biomaterials of Seattle Washington will lead the project, processing spent grains and biogas into chemicals that can be used in other applications, such as food, cosmetics, and personal care products. These renewable chemicals are drop-in replacements for petroleum-derived chemicals, which are common ingredients in everyday goods.

Blue Marble began testing small batches of Anheuser-Busch grain in early 2011 at a pilot facility and then scaled up to a small commercial facility in Missoula, Montana.

James Stephens, President and CSO of Blue Marble Biomaterials says Anheuser-Busch is the ideal feedstock supplier, because the quality and availability of the bio material helps to ensure the consistency of Blue Marble’s end products.

The pilot project is expected to reduce emissions and waste, and the companies suggested it could be replicated at numerous A-B facilities.

“For generations, we have provided our brewers’ grain to farmers for feeding their livestock. We are excited about the opportunity to have another complementary use for our grain byproducts that is also environmentally responsible and beneficial to other industries,” said Gene Bocis, Director of Utilities Support for Anheuser-Busch

Bart King is a PR consultant and principal at Cleantech Communications.

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