Global demand for omega-3s, traditionally sourced from wild-caught fish, is driving unsustainable overfishing – with 16 million tonnes of wild-caught oceanic fish annually.

MiAlgae offers a circular solution by growing algae – the original source of omega-3s – through an innovative process that eliminates the need for fish, ensuring a stable and sustainable supply of these essential nutrients.

In this first of-its-kind partnership with a distillery, MiAlgae will utilise whisky by-products from Eden Mill’s distillation process to nurture omega-3-rich microalgae. MiAlgae’s process operates at scale and is cost effective, ensuring sustainability remains affordable without compromising impact.

Eden Mill has installed an effluent storage tank at its distillery as they progress toward the completion of their brand home, located just seven minutes from St Andrews. Due to re-commence distillation early in 2025, Eden Mill will open its doors to visitors from Spring onwards.

Rennie Donaldson, Eden Mill’s CEO, said: “We are delighted to announce our long-term partnership with MiAlgae, making use of their advanced bio-technology to create sustainable omega-3 from our distillery’s effluent waste.

“Sustainability is a hugely important part of our distillery plans, and for our business as a whole, so the team are excited to see a by-product given an environmentally friendly second-use.”

Douglas Martin, founder and managing director at MiAlgae, said: “By partnering with Eden Mill, we will use nutrients from their distillery by-products to grow our eco-friendly omega-3-rich microalgae. We’ll also upcycle the effluent to clean water.

“Their shared commitment to sustainability aligns perfectly with our mission to advance biotechnology for good.”

MiAlgae has recently been recognised as a finalist for the Earthshot Prize – founded by Prince William to find “the most innovative solutions to the world’s greatest environmental challenges”. The firm has also secured £14 million in funding to accelerate its operations and scale production to meet surging global demand.

Eden Mill will distil both gin and single malt Scotch whisky in its new distillery, which will also feature a retail space and cafe, as well as a bar on the top floor looking out over the Eden Estuary.