Visit to DBFZ

In 2008, the Ministry of Agriculture specifically set up a research institute that deals exclusively with how bio-residues can be turned into something useful. We visited the center in Leipzig and got a comprehensive insight into the work of the researchers there. To begin with, Dr. Britt Schumacher gave us an insight into her work. It was about biochemical conversion (among other things biogas production). Harald Wedwitschka reported on his work with the black soldier fly (Hermetia Illucens). He is researching the efficient extraction of insect proteins and fats for food and pet food as well as for technical applications. The larvae utilize, for example, brewery residues, by-products of biofuel production, sugar production and the food industry, and nitrogen-rich fermentation residues from biogas plants. The fats are interesting for the petrochemical, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries, among others. Due to their high-quality amino acid spectrum, the valuable proteins are an interesting alternative to allergenic wheat protein (human nutrition) or controversial soy protein and fish meal (farm animal nutrition). We then took a look at the research biogas plant and the thermochemical conversion facilities. The latter investigates the conversion of biogenic solid fuels for the efficient provision of electricity, heat or cooling. It was interesting to see how elaborately the facilities are designed to investigate many questions of basic research and further development and alternative research. With many impressions and smells in our noses, we continued to madebymade with a short stop in the UFZ canteen.