Vision health: Algatech to launch microalgae-based extract for “eagle eyes”

30 Apr 2019 --- Microalgae ingredient specialist Algatechnologies Ltd. (Algatech) has headlined the newest product within its astaxanthin product line – AstaPure EyeQ – a microencapsulated, cold water-soluble, 2 percent astaxanthin powder, marketed as promoting superior vision functionalities. According to the manufacturer, the extract may be applicable as a functional ingredient in supplements, foods and beverages. AstaPure EyeQ will be unveiled at next week’s Vitafoods Europe, which is taking place during 7-9 May.

Inspired by the biochemical mechanisms of eagles’ eyes, which naturally contain astaxanthin and other carotenoids, the AstaPure EyeQ is said to help protect eyes from oxidative stress and radiation. 

Also referred to as the “king of carotenoids,” astaxanthin is regarded as one of nature’s most potent antioxidants. The microalgae-synthesized extract, which is a rich, dark red pigment, not only gives shrimp, krill and salmon their distinctive colors but also helps promote high endurance in salmon, in addition to powering birds’ incredible eyesight.

A potent antioxidant synthesized by nature 
AstaPure EyeQ astaxanthin is derived from a microalgae called Haematococcus pluvialis. Microalgae create astaxanthin to protect themselves from stressful environmental conditions. When bodies of water begin to dry during the summer, the biosynthesis of astaxanthin enables microalgae to safeguard their DNA from environmental stressors, such as radiation and oxidative stress, until the next rainy season.

This self-preservative effect can last up to many years, demonstrating the compound’s efficacy as an antioxidant. Studies have shown natural astaxanthin derived from microalgae to be over 500 times stronger than vitamin E and far more potent than other carotenoids, says Algatech.

Much like the algae needs protection from daily oxidation stress, so do humans in polluted environments. Oxidation is cited as a crucial process in healthy physiology and it is the imbalance toward excessive oxidation that triggers many disease and disorders in humans. Oxidative stress has been linked to many disorders related to the central nervous system, eye health, digestive health, cardiovascular system, muscular system and male fertility.

Literature evaluating the antioxidative properties of astaxanthin has expanded over the last 25 years. A preclinical study conducted at Kyoto University revealed that through Algatech’s proprietary technology, the astaxanthin compound is capable of crossing both the blood-brain and the brain-retina barriers, allowing for its effective delivery. Another pharmacokinetics clinical study demonstrated that AstaPure EyeQ has a two-fold bioavailability found within the plasma.

Sustainable manufacturing process mimics nature
Algatech developed a proprietary three-month cultivation process that mimics astaxanthin accumulation in nature. The cultivation begins with a “Green Stage” which ensures that the algae will enjoy optimum growing conditions, allowing maximum biomass growth over time. Later on, the algae is transferred to an all-glass photobioreactor apparatus, in which the algae growth is accelerated under the sun of the Arava desert, in Israel. Once fully developed, the “Red Stage” begins – the algae is exposed to harsh conditions, which in turn, creates stress which causes the algae to form a hard shell and produce Astaxanthin. 

This state-of-the-art photobioreactor technology and proprietary cultivation process leverages the stable, abundant solar radiation present in the Arava desert. Algatech notes that its manufacturing process is “completely sustainable,” utilizing outputs generated in a solar panel farm and water recycling platform. The company further emphasizes that microalgae cultivation displaces no crops, utilizes carbon dioxide and creates only oxygen as waste.

AstaPure product line are marketed as being safe, with no side effects when consumed with food. AstaPure has self-affirmed its status as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS), produced in an ISO-9001:2015 and ISO 22000:2005 certified facility. The AstaPure line is also Non-GMO project verified, USDA Organic, Halal and Kosher certified.

By Benjamin Ferrer