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Corbion and KAS partner to develop natural algae-based astaxanthin

Corbion and KAS partner to produce natural, non-GMO astaxanthin from algae, offering a sustainable, high-quality option for human nutrition and aquaculture.

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Credits: Shutterstock

Corbion, an Amsterdam-based global company in sustainable ingredients, and US-based biotech company Kuehnle AgroSystems (KAS) have entered into a strategic partnership to develop and commercialize a high-quality, natural astaxanthin derived from non-GMO heterotrophic algae.

Currently, most commercially available astaxanthin is either chemically synthesized for aquaculture use or derived from the phototrophic microalgae Haematococcus for human health applications. Corbion and KAS aim to provide a natural, algae-derived alternative produced through controlled fermentation of non-GMO, heterotrophic Haematococcus, the primary natural source of astaxanthin.

The partnership will focus on developing an esterified form of astaxanthin, rich in the most bioavailable isomer, delivering superior antioxidant performance, enhanced stability, and fat solubility. Designed for both the human and animal nutrition markets, the product is particularly well-suited for nutraceuticals and aquaculture applications.

By combining KAS’s fermentation platform and proprietary non-GMO algae strains with Corbion’s industrial production capabilities, regulatory and go-to-market expertise, the two companies aim to bring this innovation to market at scale.

Robert Jan de Voogd, General Manager, Algae Ingredients North America at Corbion, mentioned: “This partnership reinforces our commitment to sustainable, science-based solutions.” De Voogd also added: “KAS technology offers a strong foundation to deliver high-quality natural astaxanthin to customers looking for a clean label alternative.”

In addition, Claude Kaplan, CEO of KAS, said: “We’re proud to collaborate with Corbion to scale our technology and make premium algae-derived antioxidants more accessible worldwide.”