Overview
- Scientists at the University of Aberdeen, working with the James Hutton Institute and industry partners, are developing methods to extract solanesol from discarded potato shaws for use in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals.
- Innovate UK’s Launchpad: Bio‑based Manufacturing – Scotland programme is funding the effort, with input from Grampian Growers, Alder BioInsights and the Scottish Agricultural Organisation Society.
- Scotland’s seed‑potato sector produces more than 51,000 tonnes of shaws each year across 12,800 hectares, and researchers estimate the potential to yield up to about 120 tonnes of solanesol annually.
- Solanesol is a key precursor for coenzyme Q10 and vitamin K2, which are widely used in anti‑aging and health products, and it is currently sourced mainly from tobacco.
- The project remains in a research and development phase assessing yields and applications, building on evidence such as a 2019 study that found potato peel extracts increased collagen expression in skin cells.