Sources: Available upon request.
Collagen: a sustainable byproduct from the poultry industry
Colombian poultry farming has significantly increased its investment in research, from approximately $40 million to around $400 million. This surge in funding has led to the development of innovative products derived from poultry byproducts, including collagen.
In recent years, Colombian poultry farming has significantly increased its investment in research, from approximately $40 million to around $400 million. This surge in funding has led to the development of innovative products derived from poultry byproducts, including collagen. Let’s explore how collagen is obtained and its potential impact on sustainability.
The circular economy approach
The Colombian poultry sector aims to embrace the circular economy concept, which focuses on adding value to waste materials. By doing so, they transform what were once considered secondary products into high-value resources. Here are some notable byproducts and biotechnologies being developed within the Colombian poultry industry:
Biomass from organic poultry products
Organic waste generated by the poultry industry can be harnessed to create biomass. Biomass is a renewable energy source that has a neutral carbon footprint, emitting no greenhouse gases. The utilization of poultry waste, such as chicken litter and manure, contributes to sustainable energy production. Colombian poultry farmers actively participate in the Clúster de Energía Inteligente (Cluster of Smart Energy) in the Valle del Cauca region, focusing on energy efficiency and biomass utilization.
Cutting-edge fertilizers
The collaboration between the poultry sector and the Interdisciplinary Group of Molecular Studies at the University of Antioquia has resulted in the production of next-generation fertilizers. These fertilizers are derived from gallinaza (chicken litter) and pollinaza (turkey litter). Through composting processes (both dynamic and static), these organic waste materials are transformed into nutrient-rich fertilizers. By recycling poultry waste, farmers reduce the need for imported fertilizers and enhance soil health.
Collagen and hyaluronic acid