With consumer demand for healthy, highly sustainable and natural ingredients steadily on the increase, Allmicroalgae has unveiled ambitious expansion plans. By 2022 a nominal production capacity of 120 tonnes raw materials per year is expected – meaning an increase of more than 50 per cent of current capacities and even 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 nominal production capacity of 120 tonnes a year by 2022, and further improve on the firm’s already competitive lead times. It is also planning to expand its capabilities to produce specific species tailor-made to customer requirements 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 feed and cosmetic applications.
Optimising production and maximising the biochemical and functional characteristics of its algae-based products are at the heart of 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 species it produces, and is committed to using minimal energy. Furthermore, the water that circulates in photobioreactors is reused, as are any nutrients still present in the water after production.
Says Margarida Eustáquio, who is responsible for Business Development at Allmicroalgae: “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. 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 is one of the largest European producers of algae-based ingredients. Its expansion plans were given a boost recently 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 is supporting Allmicroalgae to expand its global presence. For more visit allmicroalgae.com
