Top-South will investigate how green residual flow from horticulture can be used for new products

Top-Zuid wants to study, with the help of innovative parties such as the Brightlands Campus Greenport Venlo, how market gardeners can get more value out of green waste streams. Top-Zuid recently mapped out the nature and extent of green waste from strawberries, cucumbers, peppers and tomatoes. The study showed that 40 million kilos of green waste was discarded last year.

This residual flow currently goes to composting companies or fermentation plants for the production of biogas. The ambition is to develop cosmetics or foodstuffs for humans and animals, for example, with ingredients from the residual flow. "With this circular horticulture we can tap into a new market and reduce food waste, while the consumer enjoys a new product. I applaud this initiative," said Agriculture Deputy Hubert Mackus.

Top-South is formed by four grower associations from Southeast Netherlands, namely ZON auction, Fossa Eugenia, Kompany and Sun Frehs. Together they unite 275 growers.

Source: Dagblad de Limburger