Transforming French fry waste into a premium, sustainable pet food ingredient

Leveraging industry expertise

Re:Source N.V., based in Wielsbeke, Belgium, was founded by professionals with long experience in the potato processing sector.

Drawing on this background in process development and operational management, the company established a dedicated facility to turn by-products from the French fry industry into dried potato meal for pet food applications.

Located in the heart of a region where large volumes of potatoes are processed, Re:Source has direct access to raw material from nearby French fry production plants in Belgium and France.

By sourcing close to home, transport distances are kept short. This approach reduces environmental impact and helps maintain the quality of the potatoes before processing.

At its Wielsbeke site, Re:Source uses a pre-treatment and drying method developed in-house to preserve quality and consistency.

The system consumes less than one-third of the energy typically used in conventional potato drying, while producing stable and uniform output.

Product benefits and applications

Potato meal is widely used in grain-free pet food formulations. Its functional properties can improve kibble expansion, texture, and oil absorption during coating.

Nutritionally, it provides a digestible starch source and contains retrograded starch, which can support beneficial gut bacteria.

The dried potato meal is produced by grinding and drying raw potato shreds from the French fry industry.

It contains around 65% starch, 6% crude protein, and 10% moisture, with a soft texture and light beige-grey color. The product is available in bulk or big bags, with a shelf life of up to one year.

Supporting circular innovation

By utilizing potato by-products that would otherwise be discarded, Re:Source contributes to waste reduction and resource efficiency in the food chain.

For pet food manufacturers, it offers a steady supply of plant-based material with a predictable nutritional and functional profile.

Beyond current production, Re:Source continues R&D efforts to further valorize all side streams of the potato processing sector.

The aim is to ensure that no part of the potato goes to waste, expanding the range of applications while supporting a more circular food system.