Algatech licenses technology to extract beta-glucans from Euglena gracilis microalgae

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Algatech Ltd. (Kibbutz Ketura, Israel) has licensed the rights and intellectual property of technology belonging to F3 Platform Biologics that is designed to extract β-1,3-glucans from Euglena gracilis microalgae. The fermented microalgae can be a rich source of β-1,3-glucans, which can constitute up to 60% of the ingredient. Typically, β-1,3-glucans have been sourced from yeast, oats, and even mushrooms, but β-1,3-glucans derived from Euglena gracilis are more concentrated and purer due to their chemical structure and processing techniques, says the company.

“Currently only a tiny fraction of the world’s microalgae has been developed for commercial use, despite the vast potential these organisms can have in tackling societal health issues. β-1,3-glucans act as immunomodulators and prime immune cells-we are excited to explore new and innovative ways to deliver on Algatech’s mission to unlock the power and health benefits of microalgae for consumers,” said Hagai Stadler, CEO of Algatech, in a press release. “We expect to launch the first Euglena-based product in the coming months, and, following the launch of FucoVital last year, it will be Algatech’s third commercial product. Additionally, our experienced R&D team continues to explore and develop other promising health ingredients derived from microalgae, with wide-ranging benefits, which will be launched over the following years.”

“The licensing of F3’s technology is in line with Algatech’s mission, and it will continue to expand and lead in the global cultivation and commercialization of microalgae. We expect the market for microalgae-derived products, beyond the use for health reasons, to continue to grow at an exponential rate in the near-term and we are excited to be at the forefront of this exciting growth trajectory, and to serve both the nutrition and cosmetic markets,” added Geoffroy Madelin, deputy CEO of Solabia Group, which acquired Algatech in May of 2019.

The end product of this extraction is a powder that can be added to shakes, protein beverages, nutritional bars, cookies, yogurts, and chocolate, says the company.