Meridian Biotech announced a new partnership with Buffalo Trace Distillery that aims to improve global food system security by converting the Distillery’s byproduct into multifunctional alternative proteins. 

Meridian will invest $40 million to construct the state-of-the-art conversion facility in Franklin County, creating up to 35 high-tech, high-paying local jobs and positioning the Commonwealth at the forefront of sustainable food innovation.

The new Meridian facility will utilize novel technology that converts Buffalo Trace stillage, a natural byproduct of the distilling process, into multifunctional alternative proteins. In its new form, the stillage, which will be piped directly from the Distillery to Meridian’s Frankfort facility, can be used in a variety of industries, including aquaculture (fish farming), pet foods, and the production of organic fertilizer. 

“By reimagining distillery stillage as a resource rather than a byproduct, we’re pioneering new pathways in biotechnology that have the potential to transform the spirits industry,” Brandon Corace, President of Meridian Biotech, said in a news release. “Like Buffalo Trace, we are committed to making a long-term, positive economic impact on the community. We believe our technology will play a pivotal role in enhancing Buffalo Trace’s commitment to innovation, as well as setting a new standard for the spirits industry. We could not be more pleased with the close working relationship with Buffalo Trace, in addition to welcoming support from local and state officials.”

Meridian was one of five companies selected across the United States to present its innovative technology at the Distillers Grains Reverse Pitch Competition in October 2021. The event, sponsored by the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet and the Cabinet for Economic Development, challenged innovators to create new ideas that tackle the growing need to address the bourbon industry’s spent-grain byproduct, while also prioritizing sustainability, environmental impact and economic value.

Governor Andy Beshear said, “We are proud to welcome Meridian to Frankfort. This investment not only brings high-quality jobs and strengthens our economic future, but it also opens exciting new pathways for sustainability within Kentucky’s iconic bourbon industry. It’s partnerships like these that prove we can honor tradition while embracing transformation and Kentucky can be a leading force in the biotech industry.”

“As Master Distiller, I have studied the distilling process and always respected the full journey from grain to glass,” Harlen Wheatley, Master Distiller at Buffalo Trace Distillery, said. “Working with Meridian allows us to take our processes even further by transforming stillage into something with extended value and purpose. This partnership is a natural extension of our craft, and we are thrilled by what’s possible with Meridian’s technology.”

Meridian is the first biotech company to locate in Franklin County. Construction is expected to begin on the new facility later this year.  

Read more: Buffalo Trace Launches Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Distiller’s Council

About Meridian Biotech

Meridian Biotech, founded in 2017, is an industrial biotechnology company based in Lexington, Kentucky. The company is the developer, owner, and exclusive licensor of its platform of technologies. For more information, visit www.meridianbiotech.com.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1775 and it is a National Historic Landmark, as well as listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its history includes such legends as E.H. Taylor, Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee. Buffalo Trace Distillery is a fully operational Distillery producing bourbon, rye and vodka on site. Buffalo Trace Distillery has a deep commitment to supporting charitable initiatives. Nonprofit organizations interested in learning more about the Distillery’s efforts are encouraged to register their charity here. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery, visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com.