Food waste to omega-3

Converting food waste into a sustainable source of omega-3

© Bob Brewer from unsplash

Norway

This project has developed an innovative solution aimed at converting food waste into a liquid growth medium suitable for fermentation, with versatile applications across numerous fermentation processes. Specifically, the project targets the fermentation of micro-algae rich in omega-3 oils, aiming to replace fish oil as feed in aquaculture. Currently, fish oil serves as the primary source of omega-3. However, due to its scarcity, Norway heavily relies on imports to meet its supply needs. By introducing new, sustainable sources of omega-3, the project seeks to alleviate dependence on imported fish oil. It will establish a collaboration with the local waste management company to collect waste materials and transform them into a valuable alternative to fish oil and sell it to livestock and fisheries. tes

Value chains


  • Food, water and nutrients

  • Organic material and biowaste

Expected impact

  • Reduction of CO2 emissions from 208 kg CO2 to 3.41 CO2 per ton of food waste compared to composting
  • Reduction in waste management costs
  • Reduction in the importation of fish oil as a source of omega-3

EU Circular Economy Classification

  • 1.b
    Development and deployment of process technologies that enable circular economy strategies
  • 1.e
    Substitution of virgin materials with secondary raw materials and by-products
  • 3.c
    Recovery and valorisation of biomass waste and residues as food, feed, nutrients, fertilisers, biobased materials or chemical feedstock

Project owner

Greentech Innovators

Greentech Innovators, based in Bergen, Norway, collaborates with national and international experts, research communities, and innovators to identify and develop sustainable solutions in the fields of circular bioeconomy and food waste management. The company brings together complementary expertise through strategic partnerships with BIR Bedrift, a private waste management company that provides logistics services, food waste handling, and initial processing capabilities, as well as with two leading research organizations: Biotrend (Lisbon, Portugal) and Nofima (Bergen, Norway). Through this multidisciplinary network, Greentech Innovators is driving innovation to support the transition towards a more circular and resource-efficient economy.

https://www.greentechinnovators.no/