Advances in process conversion technologies mediated by industrial biotechnology is offering new revenue streams to beet growers as the crop is recognised as a superb feedstock for the production of energy and bioproducts as well, according to the director of Rothamsted Research. Speaking recently at Hull Annual Lecture at Broom’s Barn Research Centre, in Suffolk, Professor Maurice Moloney said the UK sugar beet acreage, currently about 120,000ha, could substantially increase if alternative uses for the crop for food, energy, and bio-products are exploited. These include co-products such as bioethanol, food additives, betaine and polyester granules. Betaine is used in applications… Login to continue

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