Imagine a way to grow tiny algae that act like little factories, pumping out a powerful red antioxidant. Usually, this red pigment is made from oil refining, but the natural version is much healthier for fish and humans. This project found a way to grow and extract this natural pigment cheaply enough to compete with the synthetic stuff.
Natural astaxanthin is far superior to synthetic versions for health and immunity, but it is too expensive (up to 15,000 €/kg) for mass adoption in aquaculture.
An industrial-scale production and extraction process for natural astaxanthin and omega-3 using engineered microalgae, validated in 5,000-liter reactors.
If you are a feed manufacturer dealing with the high cost of natural pigments—which can reach 15,000 €/kg—this project developed a microalgae process that brings costs down to the range of synthetic AX (1,000 – 2,000 €/kg). This allows you to offer fish with better immune responses and natural coloring without losing your profit margin.
If you are a supplement brand dealing with the sustainability issues of chemical synthesis, this project developed a bio-based production method. It provides a natural antioxidant with stronger power than synthetic versions, appealing to health-conscious consumers.
If you are a skincare developer dealing with the need for high-potency antioxidants, this project developed a sustainable extraction method for natural astaxanthin. It allows for the use of bland solvents to create high-value, bio-based ingredients for wellness products.
Synthetic astaxanthin typically costs between 1,000 – 2,000 €/kg, while natural versions can reach 15,000 €/kg. The ASTEASIER technology aims to reduce production costs to be competitive with the synthetic price range.
Yes, the technology was validated in 1,000 and 5,000-liter photobioreactors, achieving a maximum productivity of 114 mg AX m-2 day-1.
The project's goal was to reach TRL6 and spin off a company to lead the engineering of microalgae for the production and sale of natural astaxanthin and other nutrients.
The process allows for the simultaneous production of astaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids, both of which are required for fish feed formulation.
The project period ran from 2023-01-01 to 2024-12-31.
The consortium is heavily industry-weighted (75%), consisting of 4 partners across 3 countries (IT, DK, PT). With 3 industrial partners, including 2 SMEs, the project is structured for commercial transition rather than pure academic research, led by the University of Verona.
Contact Universita Degli Studi di Verona regarding the ASTEASIER spin-off
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