BIOSUERO Operational Group: Revaluation of cheese whey for use as a biofertilizer/biostimulant

In Andalusia, large quantities of whey are produced each year (9 liters per kg of cheese produced). This highly polluting product is highly soluble. Although it can be used for various purposes, there is a risk of improper management at certain times of the year. Andalusian cheese factories will be able to reuse what is currently a byproduct/waste and utilize much of the water contained, which can be reused in the factory.

The production of biostimulants is a highly energy-efficient process. The benefits of this product for crops have already been demonstrated, and Biosuero will allow for greater dissemination and improved knowledge of application protocols for Andalusian crops, including when, how much, and how to apply the product. This product can be used in organic farming and agroecology, expanding the range of products available for this type of agriculture.

The project's main outcomes are expected to validate and offer cheese whey derivatives for field use as biostimulants. This will displace the use of synthetic chemicals, which have a greater environmental impact and high CO2 emissions, and will advance agriculture's goal of becoming carbon neutral. Improved soil health will contribute to increased soil biomass, resulting in greater biodiversity and increased soil CO2 capture.

Furthermore, it could help generate quality employment in rural areas. Farmers will have access to a local biostimulant/biofertilizer, with physical and temporal proximity, which increases its value and reduces its cost. It can replace synthetic products (fertilizers, agrochemicals) and improve plant health and root system function.