In Europe, soy has long been the primary source of protein in animal feed, with imports from Brazil and the US dominating the market. However, researchers at Aarhus University in Denmark are pioneering a new alternative: grass protein. By refining grass and legumes into a concentrated protein source, they aim to reduce reliance on soy imports and promote sustainable agriculture.
At their Green Biorefinery demonstration site, scientists process freshly harvested grass into a soluble protein concentrate through a sophisticated method involving maceration, pressing, and centrifugation. This highly concentrated powder, extracted from grass, is tested on pig farms to assess its efficacy and nutritional benefits.
Kristian Lundgaard-Karlshøj, of Ausumgaard Biorefinery, is among the first to adopt grass protein production on a large scale. He believes this innovation is easily scalable and thinks it will transform European farming.
The potential benefits extend beyond animal feed. Grasslands are vital for storing organic carbon and promoting biodiversity. By using grass protein, farmers can support ecosystem services while mitigating climate change.
Grass protein offers a sustainable solution for animal feed production, offers an alternative to conventional soy farming and promotes a greener future for agriculture.
The GO-GRASS project was completed in spring 2023.
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