MiAlgae proves Scotland's biotech capabilities globally
16 Dec 2025 • 5 minute read
Discover how Scotland has all the right credentials to meet rising global demand from petfood and aquaculture markets.
Breaking ground at Grangemouth marks an exciting new chapter for MiAlgae.
Scotland is reinforcing its position as a global leader in sustainable biotechnology with a groundbreaking new facility in central Scotland.
MiAlgae, the Scottish biotech firm that produces microalgae Omega-3, will develop a major new scale-up operation in Grangemouth. The development is expected to transform the supply of high-quality, fish-free Omega-3 oils for the international petfood and aquaculture industries. This will meet soaring demand for clean-label, functional ingredients.
The new plant, scheduled to go live in early 2026, is a major scale-up for MiAlgae. It'll increase Omega-3 production by more than tenfold. This will enable manufacturers across the UK, EU, and the US to incorporate premium DHA into pet nutrition and aquaculture feed without relying on wild-caught fish oil. This innovation is is intended to reshape supply chains, and position Scotland as a trusted exporter in high-growth global markets.
A circular economy approach with global impact
MiAlgae’s process is a model of circular economy innovation. By upcycling by-products from Scotland’s whisky industry, the company grows microalgae naturally rich in DHA. This contains an essential fatty acid linked to improved skin and coat health, cognitive function, and immunity in pets.
The environmental and economic benefits are significant. The facility will save an estimated six billion fish annually by replacing marine-sourced Omega-3s, and recycle over 36 million litres of whisky by-products.
Grangemouth’s strategic location offers unrivalled connectivity for international trade. Situated close to raw-material suppliers and major customers, the site will support a low-carbon supply chain for pet-nutrition and aquaculture manufacturers worldwide. Its modular design ensures scalability to meet growing global demand, reinforcing Scotland’s position as a hub for sustainable innovation and export growth.
Backing Scotland’s biotech ambitions
The petfood and aquaculture sectors are fast-growing global markets, driven by rising consumer demand for premium, sustainable ingredients. MiAlgae’s expansion taps directly into this trend, offering manufacturers a reliable, ethical alternative to marine-sourced Omega-3s. By combining cutting-edge science with circular economy principles, Scotland is setting a benchmark for sustainable trade and innovation.
This investment also strengthens Scotland’s international reputation as a destination for green technology and life sciences. With Grangemouth emerging as a hub for low-carbon industries, the region is poised to attract further investment, create high-quality jobs, and deliver supply chain opportunities that extend well beyond Scotland’s borders.
Energy Minister Michael Shanks, says: "We’re taking another step forward as we back the first new project at the site, creating hundreds of new, decent jobs and attracting further investment in the area."
With MiAlgae’s groundbreaking facility, Scotland is not only advancing its biotech capabilities but also shaping the future of global petfood and aquaculture markets. This project signals a new era for sustainable trade, and positions Grangemouth firmly on the map as a gateway to international growth.
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