HuskRefine

Oat Husk Biorefinery

Project information

Project	HuskRefine – Oat Husk Biorefinery
Duration	1.4.2026-31.3.2028
Partners	Häme University of Applied Sciences
Funding	Business Finland, Co-Research
Budget	575 000 €, 80 % aid

Oat husk generated in Finland is an underutilized side stream with significant valorization potential. In the HuskRefine project, we develop solutions to convert it into high-value products and new business opportunities in line with circular economy principles.

In Finland, every year, about 400,000 tons of oat husk are generated during oat processing, as side stream. Most of this husk is currently used for low-value applications, such as animal feed or bioenergy.

In the HuskRefine – Oat Husk Biorefinery project, we develop a biorefinery concept in which underutilized oat husk biomass is converted into higher value food ingredients. We investigate the use of pretreated oat husk, extraction residues, and biogas digestate as raw materials for growing media and plant growth-promoting products (biostimulants). In addition, we study the suitability of both untreated and treated oat husk as feedstock for biogas production. The project also explores new business opportunities and potential for oat husk in the food, horticulture, and biogas sectors.

The holistic biorefinery concept developed in the project strengthens domestic food security and the circular economy, while reinforcing Finland’s position as a forerunner in oat-based innovations. Häme University of Applied Sciences and the participating SMEs collaboratively develop a zero-waste, resource-efficient value chain based from raw materials to finished product concepts.

Target group

The project’s target groups consist of companies and public stakeholders operating within the value chains of the food system, biogas, and horticulture sectors, both nationally and internationally.

Operating region

The project results will benefit companies and professionals in these target groups at both national and international levels.

Project goals

The HuskRefine project aims to establish a scalable oat husk biorefinery that:

converts oat husk into food ingredients through advanced fractionation and bioprocessing.
evaluates the biogas production potential of oat husk and non-food grade fractions.
explores the suitability of non-food-grade husk fractions and biogas digestate, as well as microbiologically treated oat husk as growing substrates and biostimulants.
conducts economic assessments of the biorefinery pathways and products developed during the project to identify suitable business models and market opportunities for industry.