The Asteasier consortium, led by researcher Matteo Ballottari from the University of Verona, Italy, has undertaken a groundbreaking endeavour to transform the production of astaxanthin. Supported by the European Innovation Council, this consortium project is dedicated to the application of innovative technologies from the laboratory to practical use.
In pursuit of this objective, the Asteasier project has identified two microalgae strains with the potential to provide a faster, more cost-effective, and simpler method of astaxanthin production. These microalgae strains have demonstrated exceptional productivity in accumulating astaxanthin and resilience to environmental stressors, making them ideal candidates for a more economical production model.
Over recent months, these selected microalgae strains, developed at the University of Verona, have been cultivated in large-scale photobioreactors in Italy and Portugal. Originating from novel microalgae species and protected by specific patents, these strains have displayed significant promise, and the consortium holds strong confidence in their potential.
The Asteasier project is set to conclude in December 2024, focusing on validating the technology in microalgae cultivation and confirming the suitability of the biomass for feed production. Collaboration with BioMar, a prominent aqua feed producer, will initiate feed trials to evaluate the incorporation of the biomass into specialized feed formulations tailored for salmon production. These trials will also assess the valuable by-products of the strains, such as omega 3.
Progress towards commercial development includes plans to establish a spin-out company from the University of Verona and to establish a demo pilot site in Verona by the end of February. While initial discussions with investors have taken place, the consortium is awaiting validation from fish trials to advance these conversations.
The market for natural astaxanthin is growing, driven by increasing interest in organically farmed fish and sustainable production practices. Although synthetic astaxanthin currently dominates the market, accounting for over 95% of the feed market, the rising demand for natural astaxanthin has prompted various players to enter the market with innovative production methods.
For example, Kuehnle AgroSystems (KAS) utilises sustainable fermentation production for economically relevant algae, in combination with a non-GM strain of Haematococcus pluvialis, to produce astaxanthin affordably and at scale. Similarly, KnipBio offers a bio-astaxanthin ingredient from a strain of the microorganism Methylobacterium extorquens, while JX Nippon produces Panaferd, a non-GMO astaxanthin through fermentation.
As the Asteasier consortium continues to progress in microalgae technology, the future of astaxanthin production appears promising. With its potential to revolutionise the industry, Asteasier is set to pave the way for a new era in microalgae technology.
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