Dairy By-Products Upcycled into Clean Water & Bio-Fertilisers

Europe’s dairy industry processes more than 155 million tonnes of milk annually, producing vast quantities of by-products—80 to 90% of which become whey. Among these, “acid whey” stands out: its biological-oxygen demand (BOD) can be a catastrophic 175 times higher than municipal sewage. New recycling tech is transforming this problem into opportunity. For example, one process uses liquid fermentation, then solid-state fermentation with bone-char, and finally adsorption to produce clean water and phosphate-rich bio-fertiliser from dairy waste.

Industry Insight

For Indian dairy players—especially co-ops stressed by effluent costs and regulatory pressure—this trend offers a blueprint. Investing in resource recovery systems (for example, for whey streams, acid effluent) reduces disposal liability, creates new revenue lines (bio-fertiliser, recovered nutrients), and boosts the sustainability credentials of the brand. The key is starting planning now: pilot modular systems, factor in effluent charge escalation, and collaborate with bio-tech firms. In a world pushing circular agriculture, dairy by-product disposal is no longer just a compliance cost—it’s a value-creation opportunity.

Strategic implications for India dairies

• Acid whey has Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) up to **175× higher than municipal sewage**.

  • Resource recovery reduces ETP operational costs by **40–60%**.

  • Enables compliance with **CPCB and FSSAI sustainability mandates**.

  • Opportunity for co‑ops and private dairies to convert liability into profit via **bio‑fertiliser sales**.

  • Strengthens ESG performance, supports circular economy, and improves public perception.

Source : Dairynews7x7 Oct 30th 2025..Read full story here