In the pristine environment of Iceland, where nature’s beauty and purity are unmatched, Algalíf Iceland has carved a niche for itself as Europe’s premier producer of high-quality, sustainable, natural astaxanthin from microalgae. However, this innovative company is not just a leader in astaxanthin production but has also expanded its portfolio to include another powerhouse in the health and wellness industry – Nutramunity yeast beta glucan.

A commitment to sustainability and quality

Algalíf Iceland’s reputation for excellence is rooted in its unwavering commitment to sustainability and the use of advanced biotechnology. Operating in one of the world’s cleanest environments, the company harnesses Iceland’s abundant renewable energy resources to fuel its production processes. This eco-friendly approach ensures that every product leaving the Algalíf facility is not only of the highest quality but also produced with minimal environmental impact.

The rise of Nutramunity beta glucan

Among Algalíf’s array of health-enhancing products, Nutramunity yeast beta glucan stands out as a game-changer in immune health. Beta glucans, naturally occurring polysaccharides, are known for their ability to modulate the immune system. Nutramunity takes this a step further, offering a yeast beta glucan product that is backed by rigorous scientific research and clinical studies.

Nutramunity beta glucan works by interacting with immune cells in the gut, which is home to a significant portion of the body’s immune system. Upon ingestion, these beta glucans bind to receptors on immune cells, enhancing their ability to detect and respond to pathogens more effectively. This immune-boosting effect is not only critical for preventing infections but also for improving overall health and resilience.

The gut-health connection

The gut is often referred to as the body’s ‘second brain’, playing a pivotal role in overall health and wellbeing. A healthy gut contributes to a strong immune system, effective digestion, and even mental clarity. Nutramunity beta glucan supports gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which are essential for maintaining the integrity of the gut lining and for the production of short-chain fatty acids that nourish the gut.

By enhancing gut health, Nutramunity beta glucan offers a dual benefit: it strengthens the immune system and improves digestive health. This makes it an ideal supplement for those looking to boost their immune defenses while also supporting overall wellness.

Setting a new standard in immune health

What sets Nutramunity apart from other immune-support supplements on the market is the exceptional quality of the product. Algalíf ensures that every batch of Nutramunity is produced under strict quality control standards, using proprietary processes that preserve the integrity and potency of the beta glucan. This results in a product that is not only effective but also safe for long-term use.

Moreover, Nutramunity is highly bioavailable, meaning it is easily absorbed by the body, ensuring that the immune-boosting benefits are delivered efficiently. This is crucial for those who rely on supplements to maintain their health, particularly in today’s world, where the demand for immune support has never been higher.

The future of health with Algalíf

As the global leader in sustainable natural astaxanthin production, Algalíf Iceland continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of health and wellness. With Nutramunity yeast beta glucan, the company has once again demonstrated its ability to produce products that not only meet the highest standards of quality but also deliver tangible health benefits.

In a world where immune health has become a top priority, Nutramunity beta glucan offers a reliable, science-backed solution for those looking to fortify their defenses naturally. Algalíf Iceland, with its commitment to sustainability and innovation, is undoubtedly leading the way in the pursuit of better health through nature.

Algalíf Iceland’s dedication to sustainability, quality, and innovation shines through in every product it creates. With Nutramunity yeast beta glucan, the company is not just setting a new standard for immune health supplements – it is redefining what it means to be a leader in the health and wellness industry.

Nutramunity Beta-Glucan, powered by Algalif, represents the pinnacle of natural immune support. With its scientifically backed efficacy and versatile applications, Beta-Glucan is the ideal ingredient for businesses looking to meet the growing demand for natural health solutions. By integrating this powerful immune booster into your products, you can provide your customers with the best that nature has to offer while leveraging the trust and expertise of a globally recognized leader in natural health, Algalif.

Partner with Nutramunity today to harness the power of nature’s immune booster and elevate your product offerings to new heights. Read more here: www.nutramunity.com. 

An Algalif Blog by Svavar Halldorsson, Head of Sales and Marketing.

svavar@algalif.com

The benefits of yeast Beta-Glucan and natural Astaxanthin for humans will be explored in future blogs – keep up to date by following us at www.algalif.com.

The post The immunity-boosting marvel of Nutramunity™ appeared first on Algalif, Icelandic Producer of Pure, High-Grade, Natural Astaxanthin from Microalgae.

The Science Behind Beta-Glucan

Beta-Glucan is a natural polysaccharide derived primarily from the cell walls of baker’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), known for its potent immune-enhancing properties. Structurally, Beta-Glucan consists of glucose molecules linked by beta-glycosidic bonds, forming a complex carbohydrate that interacts with the immune system in a unique and powerful way.

When ingested, Beta-Glucan is recognized by specific receptors on immune cells, such as macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells. These interactions trigger a cascade of immune responses, enhancing the body’s ability to detect and eliminate pathogens. This immune modulation is particularly valuable in supporting overall immune function, helping to maintain a balanced and responsive immune system.

The Benefits of Nutramunity Beta-Glucan

Nutramunity Beta-Glucan stands out due to its high purity and efficacy, supported by extensive research. Scientific studies have demonstrated that Beta-Glucan can improve immune responses, particularly in enhancing the activity of macrophages and natural killer cells—key players in the body’s defense against infections and diseases.

For businesses in the nutraceutical, functional food, and beverage industries, incorporating Nutramunity Beta-Glucan offers several benefits:

1. Natural Immune Support: As consumers increasingly seek out natural health solutions, Beta-Glucan provides a scientifically proven, nature-derived option for immune enhancement.
2. Versatile Application: Nutramunity Beta-Glucan can be easily integrated into various product formulations, from dietary supplements to fortified foods and beverages, providing broad appeal across different market segments.
3. Backed by Science: Algalif’s commitment to rigorous scientific validation ensures that Nutramunity Beta-Glucan is not only effective but also safe for use in a wide range of products. This dedication to quality and innovation aligns with the needs of businesses that prioritize both efficacy and consumer trust.

Algalif’s Commitment to Quality and Sustainability

As a leader in the natural health industry, Algalif is dedicated to sustainability and excellence. This commitment extends to every aspect of Nutramunity Beta-Glucan production. Algalif’s state-of-the-art facilities and stringent quality control measures ensure that every batch of Beta-Glucan meets the highest standards of purity and potency.

Moreover, Algalif’s focus on sustainable practices reflects a broader mission to positively impact global wellness while minimizing environmental footprints. By choosing Nutramunity Beta-Glucan, you’re not only enhancing your products but also aligning with a brand that values ethical sourcing, sustainable production, and cutting-edge research.

Conclusion

Nutramunity Beta-Glucan, powered by Algalif, represents the pinnacle of natural immune support. With its scientifically backed efficacy and versatile applications, Beta-Glucan is the ideal ingredient for businesses looking to meet the growing demand for natural health solutions. By integrating this powerful immune booster into your products, you can provide your customers with the best that nature has to offer while leveraging the trust and expertise of a globally recognized leader in natural health, Algalif.

Partner with Nutramunity today to harness the power of nature’s immune booster and elevate your product offerings to new heights. Read more here: www.nutramunity.com. 

An Algalif Blog by Svavar Halldorsson, Head of Sales and Marketing.

svavar@algalif.com

The benefits of yeast Beta-Glucan and natural Astaxanthin for humans will be explored in future blogs – keep up to date by following us at www.algalif.com.

The post Nutramunity Beta-Glucan: Nature’s Immune Booster appeared first on Algalif, Icelandic Producer of Pure, High-Grade, Natural Astaxanthin from Microalgae.

Fucoxanthin is a golden member of the colorful group of carotenoids, which are natural pigments who share similar chemical structure. Fucoxanthin is the most abundant carotenoid on earth, about 10% of all, but it is unique to Algae, both seaweeds and microalgae. Despite its abundance, we hardly consume any fucoxanthin in our diet. So, unless we are fans of Japanese cuisine, we are not benefitting from the plethora of health benefits that fucoxanthin provides.

How is fucoxanthin good for health?

The most important and unique health benefit of fucoxanthin is its activity against metabolic syndrome (MetS), which is considered a global epidemic affecting 25% of the world’s population. MetS is a cluster of conditions including central obesity, diabetes, and insulin resistance, which is linked to reduced productivity, increased healthcare costs, and the onset of severe diseases.

Fucoxanthin was shown to work in the mitochondria of central fat layers to increase the burning of fats. Moreover, fucoxanthin improves the hormonal balance of fat tissue to increase its breakdown for energy and to ameliorate insulin resistance. Clinical studies have shown that the outcome of these processes is reduced waist size and normalized blood sugar levels.

Fucoxanthin also has neuroprotective effects, meaning that it potentially prevents neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of memory loss and dementia. In addition, it protects brain cells from damage after head trauma or stroke.

As a cosmetic ingredient, fucoxanthin is a potent anti-aging agent. It protects the skin from damage caused by the sun’s UV rays, pollution, and other inflammatory causes. Fucoxanthin also possesses a unique ability to brighten skin and eliminate skin spots, which makes it popular in cosmetics marketed in south east Asia.

Numerous laboratory studies have indicated that fucoxanthin is active against several types of cancer, by triggering apoptosis- programmed cell death- in tumor cells. Several animal studies with fucoxanthin showed a reduction in the prevalence, size, and proliferation of primary tumors and metastases.

Interestingly, various other health benefits are attributed to fucoxanthin including antimicrobial activity, improving male reproductive function, promoting longevity and geroprotective (“fountain of youth”) activity, and even reducing anxious-depressive behaviors in animal models.

Why microalgae and not seaweeds?

Currently, fucoxanthin is primarily derived from brown seaweeds, which constitute >99% of the fucoxanthin in the market. The availability of seaweeds as a source is limited due to factors such as seasonal variations, harvesting challenges, and environmental conditions, such as high levels of contaminants. As a commercial source of fucoxanthin, microalgae have several major advantages over seaweeds (macroalgae):

• The concentration of Fucoxanthin is approximately 100 times higher in microalgae than in seaweeds.
• Microalgae are available the whole year round and in unlimited supply, whereas macroalgae are seasonal.
• Microalgae can be grown in a controlled environment very efficiently. In contrast, macroalgae are usually harvested from the ocean through a costly process.
• Microalgae are cleaner and safer than macroalgae, which contain high levels of iodine, heavy metals, and other contaminants.
• Microalgae cultivation is friendlier to the environment, whereas macroalgae harvest is detrimental to the seabed and the marine environment.

Fucoxanthin at Algalif?

We at Algalif were awarded as the best natural Astaxanthin producer for four consecutive years. As such, we are already well-versed in the microalgae cultivation and production technologies necessary to tap into the huge potential of natural fucoxanthin. Our R&D team has successfully developed, implemented, and upscaled a cultivation process for the fucoxanthin-rich microalga Phaeodactylum tricornutum. We are currently optimizing post-harvesting processes, including drying and extraction, and expect our new Fucoxanthin product to be available in the near future!

An Algalif Blog by Jan Eric Jessen, M.Sc., Head of R&D.

jan@algalif.com

The benefits of astaxanthin for humans will be explored in future blogs – keep up to date by following us at www.algalif.com.

The post Fucoxanthin – The gold in golden microalgae appeared first on Algalif, Icelandic Producer of Pure, High-Grade, Natural Astaxanthin from Microalgae.

Key Findings

Enhanced Memory: Participants who took astaxanthin showed significant improvement in memory tests compared to the placebo group. This suggests that astaxanthin can enhance both short-term and long-term memory.

Improved Attention: The study found that astaxanthin supplementation led to better performance in attention-related tasks. Participants were able to maintain focus for longer periods, indicating enhanced cognitive endurance.

Faster Processing Speed: Cognitive processing speed, which is crucial for tasks requiring quick thinking and decision-making, was notably faster in the astaxanthin group.

Reduced Mental Fatigue: Those taking astaxanthin reported lower levels of mental fatigue, suggesting that it can help sustain cognitive performance during prolonged periods of mental exertion.

Implications for Cognitive Health

Astaxanthin’s cognitive benefits are largely attributed to its powerful antioxidant properties. By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, astaxanthin helps protect neurons and support overall brain health. Additionally, its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier enhances its effectiveness in promoting cognitive function.

The findings from this review paper are particularly relevant for individuals seeking to maintain or enhance their cognitive health naturally. Whether you are a student, a professional, or an older adult looking to preserve mental sharpness, astaxanthin supplementation could be a valuable addition to your daily routine.

This paper highlights the promising role of astaxanthin in supporting cognitive health. As always, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen. With ongoing research, astaxanthin could become a key player in the field of cognitive enhancement and brain health. Further information about the science of astaxanthin and studies can be found in Natural Astaxanthin: Human Clinical Studies Overview.

The benefits of astaxanthin for humans will be explored in future blogs – keep up to date by following us at www.algalif.com.

Learn more by going to the Algalif Knowledge Center. 

An Algalif Blog by Svavar Halldorsson, Head of Sales and Marketing at Algalif Iceland.

By Svavar Halldorsson.

svavar@algalif.com

The post Astaxanthin Supplementation and Cognitive Health: New Insights from Recent Research. appeared first on Algalif, Icelandic Producer of Pure, High-Grade, Natural Astaxanthin from Microalgae.

When is the right time to start anti-aging skin care?

The correct age to start using anti-aging facial care products can vary depending on several factors, including genetics, lifestyle, skin type, and individual skin care preferences. However, it can be said that the use of anti-aging facial care products can be considered from early adulthood, when the skin is just beginning to show signs of aging, and the introduction of preventive measures can help maintain the health and youthfulness of the skin in the long term. The exact age is different for each person, but some recommendations depending on age are as follows:

In your 20s: Many experts recommend starting to use anti-aging facial care products as early as the 20s. Although the signs of skin aging are not yet strongly expressed at this age, this is a good time to start taking care of the skin more consciously and take preventive measures. For example, you can start with the use of a light moisturizing cream or day cream that contains antioxidants and SPF for sun protection.

In your 30s: In the thirties, the signs of skin aging can already become more noticeable, including finer wrinkles, dryness and unevenness of the skin. At this age, you may consider adding retinol-containing products such as a night cream or serum to your skincare routine to stimulate collagen production and reduce the signs of aging.

In the 40s and onwards: In the forties and later, skin aging can become even more noticeable, as the skin gradually loses elasticity and hydration, and deeper wrinkles penetrate to the fore. At this age, the use of more intense anti-aging products, such as anti-wrinkle serums or face creams, which contain higher concentrations of antioxidants, hyaluronic acid and other skin rejuvenating ingredients, can be considered.

Antioxidants are crucial to combat oxidative stress and maintain cell health, with Astaxanthin standing out as the most potent natural antioxidant.

The benefits of astaxanthin for humans will be explored in future blogs – keep up to date by following us at www.algalif.com.

Learn more by going to the Algalif Knowledge Center. 

An Algalif Blog by Silja Dögg Gunnarsdóttir, Key Account Manager – Europe.

silja@algalif.com

The post Anti-aging and skin care appeared first on Algalif, Icelandic Producer of Pure, High-Grade, Natural Astaxanthin from Microalgae.

Algalíf Iceland. Natural Astaxanthin: Human Clinical Studies Overview.

This means that the annual growth rate (GAGR) is 8,1%. Again, this includes both synthetic (petrochemical)  and natural astaxanthin. The authors describe the purpose of the report to be to “provide a telescopic view of the current market size by value and volume, opportunities, and development status.” The synthetic (petrochemical) astaxanthin market is much bigger in volume than the natural one, but the raw material price for natural astaxanthin is about much higher than synthetic (petrochemical).

Synthetic astaxanthin is produced from petrochemicals and has no health benefits for humans.

According to other estimates, the natural astaxanthin market is 25 – 30.000 kg of pure astaxanthin annually. The report claims that increased usage of astaxanthin across several industries, including food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and animal feed, is driving the growth.

The most effective natural astaxanthin for human health benefits comes from a microalgae called Haematococcus Pluvialis.

On top of that, it may be added that the growth in the nutraceutical sector alone is somewhere between 15% to 20% annually. According to data from Innova Market Insights, about 250 new natural astaxanthin consumer products were introduced to the market last year alone.

New astaxanthin products worldwide by year.

Few or none of the big natural astaxanthin producers in the world, except for Algalif Iceland, are expanding their production capability to any considerable extent. These facts combined; the fast market growth and increased popularity of natural astaxanthin among consumers, and limited worldwide increase in production capability, means that the price of natural astaxanthin from microalgae is on the rise.

Algalif produces sustainable natural astaxanthin from microalgae in Iceland, using only green geothermal energy.

Algalif Iceland is Europe´s biggest producer of sustainable natural astaxanthin from microalgae. After the ongoing expansion is completed by the end of this year, the company will be the world’s biggest producer of natural astaxanthin from microalgae.

Algalíf Iceland. Natural Astaxanthin: Human Clinical Studies Overview.

The benefits of astaxanthin for humans will be explored in future blogs – keep up to date by following us at www.algalif.com.

Learn more by going to the Algalif Knowledge Center. 

An Algalif Blog by Svavar Halldorsson, Head of Sales and Marketing at Algalif Iceland.

By Svavar Halldorsson.

svavar@algalif.com

The post Fast growing Natural Astaxanthin market appeared first on Algalif, Icelandic Producer of Pure, High-Grade, Natural Astaxanthin from Microalgae.

• Oxidative stress: Strenuous physical exercise can lead to an overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to oxidative stress. ROS can damage cellular structures and contribute to inflammation, fatigue, and reduced physical performance. Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant, which can turn off singlet oxygen (a specific ROS). In addition, in the context of inflammation, astaxanthin has been shown to suppress cytokines and inflammatory mediators, which are elevated after exercise. 
• Muscle damage: Strenuous exercise can lead to muscle damage, leading to delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Studies have shown that astaxanthin supplementation improved muscle recovery, reduced pain, and increased strength in subjects with DOMS. The anti-inflammatory properties of astaxanthin could play a role in this context, inflammation being one of the mechanisms underlying DOMS. 
• Endurance and Fatigue: The effects of astaxanthin are not limited to post-exercise recovery. It was also examined for its potential role during the exercise. Some studies have shown that astaxanthin supplementation increased the time to exhaustion in mice, suggesting a potential role in improving endurance and reducing fatigue. The proposed mechanism is that astaxanthin improves lipid metabolism during exercise by improving the body’s use of fatty acids, sparing muscle glycogen and thus delaying fatigue. 
• Mitochondrial Protection: Mitochondria, the cell’s powerhouses, are essential for sustained physical performance. Due to their role in energy production, they can also be an important source of ROS during exercise. Astaxanthin can localize in the mitochondrial membrane, providing protection against oxidative damage and potentially improving the efficiency of energy production. 
• Immune response: Intense training without adequate recovery can weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections. By modulating inflammation and supporting antioxidant defences, astaxanthin may also help to maintain a robust immune response in athletes. 

In conclusion, astaxanthin’s powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties hold promise for those who engage in intense exercise. Whether it’s speeding up muscle recovery, improving endurance, protecting mitochondria, or supporting the immune system, astaxanthin has a full range of benefits for athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike. While preliminary research results are promising, larger human trials are essential to establish an optimal dosage and provide further evidence of these benefits. 

The benefits of astaxanthin for humans will be explored in future blogs – keep up to date by following us at www.algalif.com.

Learn more by going to the Algalif Knowledge Center. 

An Algalif Blog by Silja Dögg Gunnarsdóttir, Key Account Manager – Europe.

silja@algalif.com

The post Astaxanthin for muscle recovery  appeared first on Algalif, Icelandic Producer of Pure, High-Grade, Natural Astaxanthin from Microalgae.

Natural astaxanthin is the strongest antioxidant

You cannot see them, cannot hear them, cannot smell them, and cannot feel them. But they are there! The Killer in the Air. Their name: “Free radicals”. This is simply oxygen molecules.

Oxygen is vital to us humans. But how can a vital element be capable of such destruction? On one hand, oxygen sustains, promotes, and fuels life – on the other hand, it causes stress and damage to our proteins and even DNA, impairing our health and well-being in multiple ways. The reason: Not all oxygen molecules are made equal.

Negative influence of oxygen molecules

The majority of respirated oxygen is stable and indispensable for life. But there are also unstable oxygen molecules, including the free radicals. Radical and non-radical oxygen molecules differ in their molecular structure. Radical oxygen species have an unpaired – unstable – electron, and this excess of energy can only be stabilized by stealing electrons from other nearby molecules, such as our proteins or DNA. This is how free radicals can quickly develop into killer substances. The radical oxygen molecules can influence our organism very negatively.

The apple and the lemon juice

So free radicals react chemically with important parts of our body and oxidize them— cause them to “rust”, so to speak. Visible signs of this oxidative stress include, for example, age-related pigmentation marks (age spots), wrinkles, and grey hair.

There are certain natural substances, however, which calm the overenergetic free radicals. These substances are called “antioxidants”. You can easily test the power of antioxidants yourself: Cut an apple in two, coat the cut surface of one half with lemon juice, and wait. You will see that the untreated half will quickly become brown. The reason for this is the attack by oxygen—the attack of free radicals. You are witnessing the effects of oxidative stress on an apple. The half coated with lemon juice will not become brown so quickly, because it is protected by the power of the antioxidants; lemon juice contains vitamin C, another powerful antioxidant.

Astaxanthin – the super radical catcher

The antioxidants, or “radical catchers”, have the unique ability to stabilize the radical oxygen molecule by donating electrons, without becoming unstable themselves. This neutralizes the radical without damaging neighbouring molecules or cells, and stops the destructive chain reaction, as the antioxidant remains undisturbed from its electron loss. Thus, antioxidants help to ensure a balance within our bodies.
The antioxidants’ “special forces” is Astaxanthin. This carotenoid from the green algae Haematococcus pluvialis is renowned worldwide as the strongest natural antioxidant at all. As radical catcher, it is 6000 times stronger than vitamin C, 800 times stronger than coenzyme Q10, and 550 times stronger as vitamin E. In addition to this superpower, Astaxanthin has a decisive advantage over other antioxidants: it is active in both the hydrosoluble and liposoluble milieu and can therefore protect the whole cell from external influences. Its molecular structure is perfectly suited to strengthen the cell surface and protect it from oxidative damage.

Beneficial for skin protection

In dermatologic research, Astaxanthin is considered a great success. Scientific studies have shown that pure, naturally extracted Astaxanthin can, among other effects, slow down the oxidative aging of the skin by free radicals, promote regenerative processes of the collagen tissue, and protect from UV radiation, irritations, and sunburn.

This mighty antioxidant not only protects the skin— Astaxanthin as a hydrosoluble and liposoluble antioxidant protects all 100 trillion cells in our body.

The benefits of astaxanthin for humans will be explored in future blogs – keep up to date by following us at www.algalif.com.

Learn more by going to the Algalif Knowledge Center. 

An Algalif Blog by Silja Dögg Gunnarsdóttir, Key Account Manager – Europe.

silja@algalif.com

The post The Killer in the Air – Free radicals appeared first on Algalif, Icelandic Producer of Pure, High-Grade, Natural Astaxanthin from Microalgae.

Location

Location in this context can refer to both geographical location, but also the distinction between cultivation that takes place outdoors and cultivation that takes place indoors. In both cases though, access to a sustainable, stable, and renewable energy source is of critical importance.

Outdoor operations are usually located in warm, sunny climates and have the general sustainability advantage of using natural sunlight to drive the photosynthesis and thereby requiring less energy overall. The disadvantages include increased contamination risk and bioburden, low productivity, limited light utilization and a stronger need for external temperature adjustments – all of which can increase the environmental footprint substantially.

Indoor operations are usually more energy intensive as the process is often driven by artificial high-energy lighting. The advantages however include full parameter control (temperature, pH etc.), enhanced productivity (partly due to being able to cultivate both day and night), lower contamination risk and lower energy requirements for temperature adjustment. Locations with stable, low-temperature climates, low bioburden and access to renewable energy are therefore best suited for indoor microalgae cultivation.

Water availability & quality

Water is the single most important ingredient in microalgae cultivation. Microalgae cultures are predominantly made up of water (biomass density rarely exceeds 10 g/L and is often around 1-4 g/L), so it goes without saying that water availability and quality are critical factors. Sustainability and environmental considerations are tightly linked to the water source in many ways;

• Sustainable, steady water access is of primary importance and water usage must not be at the expense of other industries or general usage.
• Chemical pre-treatment of the water is needed in locations with poor water quality, and this has a negative impact on the overall sustainability and environmental profile.
• The suitability of the local water profile needs to be aligned with the intended culture medium to be used and the microalgae species in question. If the profile is not suitable, adjustments need to be made and these can have negative environmental impacts.
• Controlling water use by ensuring that evaporation rates are minimized is a sustainable step to take. Evaporation rates in open pond, outdoor systems can exceed 20% per day but in closed, indoor systems the evaporation rates can be maintained well below 1%

Overall, this discussion demonstrates that although microalgae cultivation for the production of bioactive compounds is an inherently environmentally friendly process, many details have to be taken into consideration to assess the overall sustainability profile and to compare products produced by different cultivation techniques and in different locations.

An Algalif Blog by Dr. Tryggvi Stefansson, CChief Operating Officer of Algalif

tryggvi@algalif.com

The benefits of astaxanthin for humans will be explored in future blogs – keep up to date by following us at www.algalif.com.

The post Why does environmental impact play a role for microalgae-derived astaxanthin production? appeared first on Algalif, Icelandic Producer of Pure, High-Grade, Natural Astaxanthin from Microalgae.

In general, the neutraceutical market for astaxanthin does not tolerate the use of pesticides, antibiotics, or genetic modifications to H. Pluvialis. If we also take into account that H. pluvialis grows relatively slowly compared to many eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms that thrive under the same cultivation conditions – it becomes clear that the cultivation of H. pluvialis for astaxanthin production is quite challenging.

Challenges of contamination

Everyone who has cultivated microalgae in photobioreactors under mild conditions knows that contamination of H. pluvialis cultures by other undesirable algae species is among the most significant issues of the process. Once a contaminant has gained ground in a photobioreactor, it is very hard to get completely rid of the contaminant – even when various methods to clean the system are combined!

So what is the best way to deal with the challenge of contamination? Algalíf has identified that the key factor to maintaining high culture quality and staying away from contamination issues is: Productivity!

Cultivation conditions

Algalíf has now been cultivating Haematococcus pluvialis for astaxanthin production for more than 10 years. One of the most significant takeaways from our extensive experince is that high productivity is not only important to gain as much astaxanthin from the cultivation as possible – but is also a key factor in minimizing the risk of contamination in the cultures. Coupled with early detection by contamination screening, high productivity means that any potential contaminant has less time to establish and take over the culture.

Algalíf has put a lot of effort into optimizing every single detail of the cultivation conditions at all culture stages to maximize the productivity of the photobioreactor systems. The success Algalíf has had in reaching high productivity means that Algalíf has less contamination issues than most other companies cultivating H. pluvialis, and is thus able to provide products of very high quality.

An Algalif Blog by Jan Eric Jessen, M.Sc., Head of R&D.

jan@algalif.com

The benefits of astaxanthin for humans will be explored in future blogs – keep up to date by following us at www.algalif.com.

The post The importance of high productivity appeared first on Algalif, Icelandic Producer of Pure, High-Grade, Natural Astaxanthin from Microalgae.