Meridian Biotech taps bourbon byproducts for protein push in US$40 million Buffalo Trace deal

A Lexington biotechnology company is turning Kentucky’s rich bourbon heritage into an unlikely path for sustainable protein production. Meridian Biotech announced it will invest US$40 million in a new Franklin County facility through a partnership with Buffalo Trace Distillery to transform distillery byproducts into alternative proteins, creating up to 35 high-tech jobs and positioning itself as the county’s first biotech firm.

The move comes as Kentucky seeks to build its reputation as a center for innovative industries while remaining deeply tied to its historic spirits sector. Meridian’s new plant will process byproduct from the whiskey-making process, known as stillage, into proteins that can be used in aquaculture, pet foods and organic fertilizers. Construction on the facility is expected to begin later this year.

Governor Andy Beshear celebrated the deal as another sign that Kentucky can bridge tradition with new industries. “We are proud to welcome Meridian to Frankfort with this incredible investment that will create high-quality jobs, strengthen our economic future and continue to grow Kentucky’s iconic bourbon industry,” Beshear said. “It’s partnerships like these that prove we can honor tradition while embracing transformation and that Kentucky can be a leading force in the biotech industry.”

Founded in 2017, Meridian Biotech focuses on developing sustainable biotechnological solutions aimed at tackling the food security challenges of a growing global population. In 2021, the company gained attention when it was chosen to showcase its technology during the Distillers Grain Reverse Pitch Competition, an event designed to find innovative uses for distillery waste streams.

That competition was organized through a collaboration between the Distillers Grains Technology Council, the James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits, Awesome Inc., the Energy and Environment Cabinet and KY Innovation, with support from the Kentucky Distillers’ Association.

Brandon Corace, president of Meridian Biotech, underscored the significance of repurposing distillery byproducts into valuable resources. “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,” Corace said. “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.”

Buffalo Trace Distillery, based in Frankfort, traces its roots back to 1775 and is recognized as a National Historic Landmark. The distillery produces bourbon, rye and vodka, and its long history includes figures like E.H. Taylor Jr., George T. Stagg and Albert B. Blanton.

Franklin County leaders are welcoming Meridian’s arrival as a sign of the region’s evolving economy. Franklin County Judge/Executive Michael Mueller called the company’s investment a catalyst for growth. “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,” Mueller said.

Frankfort Mayor Layne Wilkerson echoed that enthusiasm, emphasizing the partnership as a step forward in attracting innovative industries. “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,” Wilkerson said. “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 Team Kentucky’s efforts in supporting this venture and look forward to Meridian’s continued growth and success.”

As Meridian Biotech breaks ground later this year, Kentucky’s bourbon industry could soon play a new role in feeding fish, pets and even enriching soils, demonstrating how legacy industries and modern biotechnology can work hand in hand for economic development and sustainability.