Algatech to launch microalgae-derived products from F3 Platform Biologics

08 Aug 2019 --- Microalgae-derived ingredients player Algatech has licensed the rights and intellectual property related to the production of β-1,3-glucan from F3 Platform Biologics (F3), a US-based biotechnology company. The technology licensed by Algatech derives β-1,3-glucans from fermented microalgae Euglena gracilis, which can comprise the active ingredient up to 60 percent. With this move Algatech seeks to bring these more efficient and better quality β-1,3-glucans-based products to market. As part of the agreement, fermentation expert Dr. Brad Cox, who has been instrumental in developing F3’s cutting-edge capabilities, will head the Euglena project at Algatech and support its fermentation activity.

Algatech is involved in the research, cultivation and commercialization of microalgae, one of the earliest known life forms and a proven source of crucial nutrients. Based at Kibbutz Ketura in southern Israel, the company’s mission is to unlock the health benefits of these vital plants through meticulous R&D and cutting-edge technology. In May, Algatech was acquired by Solabia Group, a global leader in biotechnology, fine chemicals and plant extraction technologies. 

Geoffroy Madelin, Deputy CEO of Solabia Group notes that “the licensing of F3’s technology is in line with Algatech’s mission and will continue to expand and lead in the global cultivation and commercialization of microalgae.” “We expect the market for microalgae-derived products – beyond the use for health reasons – to continue to grow at an exponential rate in the near-term and we are excited to be at the forefront of this exciting growth trajectory, and to serve both the nutrition and cosmetic markets,” he adds.

β-1,3-glucans are currently widely available in the market from several sources including yeast, oats and mushrooms, however, when derived from Euglena gracilis they are more concentrated and purer in their make-up due to their chemical structure and processing techniques. This makes them significantly more potent and effective in terms of their potential health benefits for both humans and animals, the company notes. 

Algatech is involved in the research, cultivation and commercialization of microalgae.This new technology to extract β-1,3-glucans from the Euglena gracilis microalgae is more efficient and produces a higher-quality ingredient than previously possible, Algatech highlights. 

“Currently only a tiny fraction of the world’s microalgae has been developed for commercial use, despite the vast potential these organisms can have in tackling societal health issues. β-1,3-glucans act as immunomodulators and prime immune cells – we are excited to explore new and innovative ways to deliver on Algatech’s mission to unlock the health benefits of microalgae for consumers,” says Hagai Stadler, CEO of Algatech.

In order to capitalize on the wide-reaching benefits of microalgae-derived β-1,3-glucans and a largely untapped market, Algatech is planning to launch several products using the nutrient for both the human and animal health markets in the coming months. These products will expand Algatech’s existing product offering and support its mission to develop commercial microalgae-based products.

“We expect to launch the first Euglena-based product in the coming months and, following the launch of FucoVital last year, it will be Algatech’s third commercial product. Additionally, our experienced R&D team continue to explore and develop other promising health ingredients derived from microalgae, with wide-ranging benefits, which will be launched over the following years,” Stadler adds.

The technology has been licensed from F3 Platform Biologics who developed it under the product name BioGlena. β-1,3-glucans are produced and processed at varied levels to make powdered products in market-leading concentrated forms to minimally processed offerings additionally rich in protein, healthy fats and 23 other vitamins. Studies show that these properties make it a valuable tool for boosting human immunity, increasing the body’s antibodies by 84 percent and supporting its ability to fight infection. Many of these benefits to human health also apply to animals – enhanced β-1,3-glucan intake has been proven to prime immune systems and support growth at optimal rates. In practice, the powdered product can be added to shakes, protein drinks, nutritional bars, cookies, yogurt, puddings and chocolate for added health benefits, making it accessible and affordable for mass-market consumption.

Edited by Kristiana Lalou