India’s first shrimp shell biorefinery by ICAR-CIFT sets new benchmark

The biorefinery plant marks a significant achievement in transforming shrimp shell waste into high-value products such as chitin, chitosan, and shrimp protein hydrolysate

In a pioneering step toward sustainability, India has launched its first shrimp shell biorefinery plant, spearheaded by Longshore Technologies Private Limited in Maharashtra. This groundbreaking initiative, supported by the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT), addresses the pressing challenge of shrimp processing waste while advancing the concept of a circular economy in the fisheries sector.

The biorefinery plant marks a significant achievement in transforming shrimp shell waste into high-value products such as chitin, chitosan, and shrimp protein hydrolysate. These byproducts have diverse applications across industries like agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, highlighting the economic and environmental benefits of the venture.

Dr George Ninan, Director of ICAR-CIFT, stated, “This project reflects our commitment to bridging the gap between scientific research and industrial application. By developing practical, scalable solutions, ICAR-CIFT is demonstrating how sustainable technologies can revolutionize industries, foster entrepreneurship, and create employment opportunities.”

For years, India’s shrimp processing industry has struggled with the management of shrimp shell waste, often considered an environmental burden. Recognizing its potential as a resource, ICAR-CIFT developed advanced technologies to repurpose this byproduct, paving the way for sustainable practices in India’s blue economy.

This innovative project exemplifies a circular economy approach, where waste from one process becomes raw material for another. By minimizing environmental impact and generating high-value outputs, the shrimp shell biorefinery is a beacon of sustainable industrial practices.

Currently, Longshore Technologies processes two tonnes of shrimp shell waste daily at its Mumbai facility. With an annual capacity of 400 tonnes, the plant generates valuable products and provides employment to seven individuals. The operation is expected to generate a turnover of Rs 25 lakhs annually, enhancing the economic viability of sustainable shrimp processing.

This initiative not only reduces environmental waste but also reinforces India’s position as a leader in sustainable fisheries technology. By leveraging the collaborative efforts of ICAR-CIFT and Longshore Technologies, the project sets a precedent for innovative waste management solutions in the fisheries industry.

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