Repurposing poultry processing water for hydroponic use

An estimated 62 billion gallons of nutrient-rich poultry processing wastewater are produced each year — a byproduct that is typically treated and discharged.

Auburn University researchers have demonstrated a new method to safely reuse that water to grow hydroponic crops, offering a potential breakthrough in water conservation and agricultural efficiency.

By eliminating pathogens such as Salmonella, the team used treated wastewater from a poultry processing plant to grow romaine lettuce safe for human consumption. The work focuses on nutrient cycling and food safety in controlled-environment agriculture.

The work centers on a filtration system that combines biological treatment with algae and beneficial bacteria, fine filtration and ultraviolet disinfection to reduce pathogens and antimicrobial risks.

“We are using relatively simple, low-cost systems to treat the water,” said Brendan Higgins, associate professor of biosystems engineering.

The system was tested over 200 days using wastewater sourced from a regional processing plant. Researchers intentionally introduced pathogens to stress-test the system, demonstrating its ability to maintain food safety standards under demanding conditions.

Unlike prior studies that relied on small-scale or simulated systems, the team used real wastewater at scale, improving the applicability of the results.

While additional research is needed before widespread adoption, the approach offers a promising strategy for reducing environmental impact and expanding sustainable water use in agriculture.