Active and resting cells contain, strong antioxidant, astaxanthin.
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Dutch food and biochemicals company Corbion and U.S.-based biotechnology firm Kuehnle AgroSystems (KAS) have signed a collaboration agreement to develop and commercialize natural astaxanthin produced through algae fermentation.
According to Corbion, this antioxidant and red-orange carotenoid pigment is highly beneficial for human health and is an essential ingredient in the feed of salmon and other aquaculture species.
The goal is to develop a production method using controlled fermentation of non-GMO heterotrophic Haematococcus, the primary natural source of astaxanthin, in order to offer a natural, algae-based alternative.
In addition, it will offer superior antioxidant performance, enhanced stability, and fat solubility. It is intended for both the human and animal nutrition markets and is especially well-suited for nutraceuticals and aquaculture applications.
This entire project will be made possible by KAS’s advanced fermentation platform and its proprietary non-GMO algae strains, combined with Corbion’s industrial production capabilities, as well as its regulatory and commercial expertise.
"This partnership reinforces our commitment to sustainable, science-based solutions. KAS' technology offers a strong foundation to deliver high-quality natural astaxanthin to customers looking for a clean-label alternative," said Robert Jan de Voogd, General Manager, Algae Ingredients North America at Corbion.
Finally, CEO of KAS, Claude Kaplan, added: "We're proud to collaborate with Corbion to scale our technology and make premium algae-derived antioxidants more accessible worldwide."