Innovating microalgae: Algatech partners with encapsulation firm on delivery forms

09 May 2018 --- Algatechnologies (Algatech) is teaming up with Italian R&D company Sphera Encapsulation to develop innovative, functional ingredient formats. Based on Sphera’s propriety encapsulation technology, the partnership is to focus first on the development of innovative new delivery forms of ingredients derived from microalgae, starting with a water-soluble powder of all-natural astaxanthin.

This debut product, featuring Algatech’s Astapure, expected to launch in the coming months, is a water-soluble powder. The powder is formulated with natural ingredients only and becomes a clear solution in water. It is odorless and has a neutral flavor. The new powder technology also boosts bioavailability, according to Algatech.

“This powder is made with natural ingredients only and is a perfect solution for clean label products. AstaPure Sphera powder can be used in capsules, stick packs, sachets, gummies as well as in liquid supplements, clear beverages and food products. The variety is unlimited,” Efrat Kat, VP, Marketing & Sales at Algatech, tells NutritionInsight.

Algatech and Sphera are to introduce the new powder at Vitafoods, Geneva, to a selected list of companies.

“The development process of the powder is complete and we are now focusing on the scale up process. We expect to launch this breakthrough product by the end of this year. In addition, we are now conducting clinical studies with our powder so we can offer our customers with a full package of technical and scientific support,” Kat tells NutritionInsight.

“The nutraceutical market is fast-changing,” says Hagai Stadler, CEO of Algatech. “Companies are looking for new delivery forms and higher value for their products, and Sphera’s propriety technology is able to answer this growing demand. Sphera was established by three dedicated scientists and successfully developed innovative encapsulation technology. That technology will allow incorporation of astaxanthin and other microalgae ingredients into new food and beverage categories, and to add significant value to existing markets.”

“The development of new functional products requires technologies improving bioavailability and potency,” says Gianni Zoccatelli, CEO of Sphera. Our expertise allows us to offer consumers unique products that are appealing to the senses. We are devoted to using biodegradable materials and creating sustainable products. We are very excited to partner with a leading microalgae company like Algatech that is committed to the environment and has created great sustainable ingredients.”

“Partnering across the value chain with cutting-edge technology companies such as Sphera Encapsulation, and others to come, is yet another step forward in our strategy for bringing the benefits of microalgae to the next level,” adds Stadler.

“Microalgae are an untapped source of a variety of health-enhancing bioactive compounds. Since the establishment of Algatech 20 years ago, our team has been working relentlessly to unlock the potential of this first plant on earth,” Kat notes. “Besides the Haematococcus microalgae from which we produce AstaPure astaxanthin, we cultivate several other unique microalgae strains that we have either already commercialized (such as Nannochloropsis, Porphyridium) or will be launching products based on within the year. Supplying the world with pure, 100 percent natural microalgae is not easy. In fact, it requires a tremendous amount of knowledge, experience, fully controlled processes and constant attention to detail.”

By Lucy Gunn