Buffalo Trace Distillery Announces New Sustainability Project with Meridian Biotech

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Home » Bourbon Blog » Bourbon and Whiskey News » Buffalo Trace Distillery Announces New Sustainability Project with Meridian Biotech

A Groundbreaking Partnership for Sustainability.

Meridian Biotech, in collaboration with Buffalo Trace Distillery, is set to transform the bourbon industry’s byproduct into a valuable resource. With a $40 million investment, Meridian will construct a cutting-edge facility in Franklin County, Kentucky, creating up to 35 high-tech, high-paying jobs. This innovative project positions Kentucky as a leader in sustainable food production and biotechnology.

Converting Stillage into Alternative Proteins

The new Meridian facility will employ advanced technology to convert Buffalo Trace’s stillage—a natural byproduct of the distilling process—into multifunctional alternative proteins. Piped directly from the Distillery to Meridian’s Frankfort facility, these proteins will serve industries such as:

  • Aquaculture: Supporting sustainable fish farming.
  • Pet Foods: Enhancing nutrition in pet products.
  • Organic Fertilizer: Providing eco-friendly agricultural solutions.

This innovative approach reimagines stillage as a resource, reducing waste and creating economic value.

Leadership in Biotechnology and Community Impact

“By reimagining distillery stillage as a resource rather than a byproduct, we’re pioneering new pathways in biotechnology that have the potential to transform the spirits industry,” said Brandon Corace, President of Meridian Biotech. “Like Buffalo Trace, we are committed to making a long-term, positive economic impact on the community. We believe our technology will play a pivotal role in enhancing Buffalo Trace’s commitment to innovation, as well as setting a new standard for the spirits industry. We could not be more pleased with the close working relationship with Buffalo Trace, in addition to welcoming support from local and state officials.”

A Vision for Kentucky’s Economic and Sustainable Future

Governor Andy Beshear emphasized the significance of this partnership: “We are proud to welcome Meridian to Frankfort. This investment not only brings high-quality jobs and strengthens our economic future, but it also opens exciting new pathways for sustainability within Kentucky’s iconic bourbon industry. It’s partnerships like these that prove we can honor tradition while embracing transformation and Kentucky can be a leading force in the biotech industry.”Buffalo Trace’s Commitment to InnovationHarlen Wheatley, Master Distiller at Buffalo Trace Distillery, shared his enthusiasm: “As Master Distiller, I have studied the distilling process and always respected the full journey from grain to glass. Working with Meridian allows us to take our processes even further by transforming stillage into something with extended value and purpose. This partnership is a natural extension of our craft, and we are thrilled by what’s possible with Meridian’s technology.”

Franklin County Welcomes Biotech Innovation

Meridian’s facility marks the first biotech company to establish roots in Franklin County. Local leaders expressed their excitement:

  • Frankfort Mayor Layne Wilkerson: “We’re thrilled to welcome Meridian Biotech to Frankfort, the result of a strategic effort to attract investment in the growing biotech sector and another sign of our city’s economic momentum. Their groundbreaking approach to repurposing distillery byproducts complements Frankfort’s commitment to innovation, our deep bourbon heritage, and Buffalo Trace Distillery’s dedication to excellence. Having spent time with Meridian’s leadership, I’m confident their presence will significantly boost our community and demonstrate to other innovative companies that Frankfort is the right place for business. We appreciate the Commonwealth of Kentucky’s efforts in supporting this venture and look forward to Meridian’s continued growth and success.”
  • Franklin County Judge Michael Mueller: “We thank Meridian Biotech for their catalytic investment in Franklin County. Their commitment to sustainable and transformative technologies are a great match with our aspirations. Buffalo Trace Distillery continues to invest in being a model environmental steward and corporate citizen. These two companies together demonstrate how bright the future is. We also want to thank Team Kentucky for their assistance helping Meridian Biotech find a home in Franklin County.”

A Legacy of Innovation

Meridian’s technology earned recognition at the 2021 Distillers Grains Reverse Pitch Competition, sponsored by the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet and the Cabinet for Economic Development. Selected as one of five innovators nationwide, Meridian showcased its ability to address the bourbon industry’s spent-grain byproduct challenge while prioritizing sustainability and economic value.

About Meridian Biotech

Founded in 2017 and based in Lexington, Kentucky, Meridian Biotech is an industrial biotechnology company specializing in innovative protein solutions. Learn more at www.meridianbiotech.com.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery, a National Historic Landmark based in Frankfort, Kentucky, has been producing premium whiskies since 1775. With over 1,000 awards and a commitment to charitable initiatives, it remains a cornerstone of American distilling. Visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com for more information.Looking AheadConstruction on the Meridian facility is slated to begin later in 2025, marking a significant step toward a more sustainable and innovative future for Kentucky’s bourbon and biotech industries.

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