Byproducts from fermentation industries using modem, biotechnological fermentation processes are produced in large volumes, up to several thousand tons per year. The byproducts consist of the biomass from the microorganisms that reproduced in fermentation, the raw products contained in the fermentation solution, and both major and minor products of fermentation. In addition, the byproducts may contain chemicals added to assist in the recovery of the product especially where ion exchange resins have been used. Annual energy consumption by the microorganisms carrying out the fermentation processes in Iowa industries amounts to over five million bushels of com that has been refined into sugar.