Oat Hulls have long been seen as a low-value by product, destined for animal bedding or fuel. But Flahavan’s saw potential for extracting more value from this outer layer. With the growing need for sustainability and resource efficiency, find out how the collaboration between Flahavan’s and Teagasc is paving the way of a greener bioeconomy!
Challenge: Adding Greater Value to Oat Hulls
Oat hulls—the fibrous outer layer removed during milling—have traditionally been viewed as a low-value by-product used for animal bedding or biomass fuel. However, with increasing emphasis on sustainability and resource efficiency, Flahavan’s sought new ways to valorise this by-product and contribute to Ireland’s growing circular bioeconomy.
Solution: Align with Bioeconomy Principles
In collaboration with Teagasc’s National Prepared Consumer Food Centre, Flahavan’s is supporting research to extract valuable dietary fibre and protein from oat hulls and transform them into functional ingredients for food, feed, and bio-based applications. These methods align with bioeconomy principles, maximising the value of agri-food co-products while reducing waste. Potential applications include high-fibre food additives and biodegradable packaging materials.
Impact: New Product Streams and Revenue Models
This research is enabling new product streams and revenue models for Flahavan’s, positioning the company at the forefront of Ireland’s circular bioeconomy. Combined with the company’s strong sustainability ethos—including 70% renewable energy generation and use of biomass boilers; the collaboration with Teagasc exemplifies how long-established food companies can evolve through science-led innovation.
“At Flahavan’s, we’re committed to finding new ways to add value to our by-products. Collaborating with Teagasc allows us to explore innovative uses for oat hulls that align with our sustainability goals and support the bioeconomy.”
— Johnny Flahavan, Operations Manager, E. Flahavan & Sons Ltd.
