OG Grass2Algae: valorisation of residual grass for microalgal cultivation as novel protein source

The Grass2Algae operational group aims to evaluate the use of grass juice for growing microalgae as an additional source of income for farmers. The grass juice is firstly separated from the fibers through a pressing step. Then microalgae is cultivated using the grass juice as growing medium.Results showed that: • The juice from cultivated grass clippings may be used as a nutrient source in the production of protein-rich microalgae biomass. • The acidity of the juice may warrant the need to artificially increase the pH of the culture medium for optimal growth of the microalgae and reduce the microbial load during cultivation. • Future (pilot-scale) studies are needed to further explore the potential of using grass juice as a nutrient source for microalgal growth.