Motion · S6M-19966 · 28 Nov 2025

Welcoming Research to Turn Spuds into Skincare Products

Lodged by Kevin Stewart Standard Motion 11 supporters

The motion

That the Parliament welcomes the news that scientists from the University of Aberdeen are part of a team, including Grampian Growers Ltd and the James Hutton Institute, looking to turn potato waste into high-value compounds for use in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and nutraceutical products; notes that the project aims to extract solanesol from potato shaws, 51,000 tonnes of which are discarded annually after harvest, as an ethical and sustainable alternative to sourcing solanesol from tobacco; understands that this project, if successful, would allow farmers to make more complete use of potato biomass, reducing agricultural waste and creating new economic opportunities for Scottish farmers and cooperative members; believes that this research could help strengthen the resilience of rural communities across Scotland and beyond, and wishes all those working on the project the very best of luck in their endeavours.

Supporters (11)

Source: the Scottish Parliament motions and amendments record.