October 13,  2020

Allmicroalgae set to double output of algae-based ingredients

Allmicroalgae, one of the largest European producers of algae-based ingredients, has recently unveiled its expansion plans.

By 2022, the company expects to achieve a nominal production capacity of 120 tonnes of raw materials per year. This translates to an increase of more than 50% of current capacities and a doubling compared to the initial volume.

The growth plans include the installation of a second fermenter, which will be key in helping to achieve the targeted production capacity and further improve on Allmicroalgae's already competitive lead times.

The company is also planning to expand its capabilities to create customised products for different market sectors. Allmicroalgae's algae species Nannochloropsis oceanica, Chlorella vulgaris, Tetraselmis chuii, Phaeodactylum tricornutum and Scenedesmus sp., are high-quality sources of macro- and micronutrients with valuable nutritional profiles and a wide range of functionalities. This makes them ideal not just for use in food supplements targeted at the sport and fitness sectors, but also animal feed and cosmetic applications.

Optimising production and maximising the biochemical and functional characteristics of Allmicroalgae's algae-based products are at the heart of its R&D activities. The microalgae are cultivated in photobioreactors and fermentation vessels, with continuous monitoring of cultural parameters and contaminants, before biomass is harvested through ultrafiltration. They are then spray-dried and packed in a protective atmosphere, with each batch verified as free of contaminants by an independent third-party laboratory.

Allmicroalgae does not use fertilisers or pesticides in the algae species it produces, and is committed to using minimal energy. Furthermore, the water that circulates in photobioreactors is reused, as it is with any nutrient still present in the water after production.

"The rapidly growing market for natural, sustainable ingredients with added health benefits proves the importance of our goal to make nutritious and sustainable microalgae accessible to all," said Margarida Eustáquio, who is responsible for business development at Allmicroalgae.

"In response to the increasing demand for algae-based solutions, we are more than happy to be able to expand delivery and to further approve services to our customers. Our products combine the best of both worlds – excellent functionality and a clear ethical conscience. Our expansion demonstrates perfectly that economic growth and sustainability can be smartly combined when using future-proof raw materials and techniques."

Allmicroalgae's expansion plans were recently given a boost thanks to the announcement of a new partnership with Greentech, a pioneer in plant biotechnology with experience in processing algae in innovative ingredients.

The joint venture supports Allmicroalgae in the expansion of its global presence, the company said.

- Allmicroalgae