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Sustainably Produced Algae for Immune Health

Posted September 27, 2022

Consumers are starting to recognize that algae are an important tool for boosting immune health and a source for other health benefits as well, such as better cardiovascular health.  Not all algae are created equally, however. Different algae sources and the conditions they are grown in can lead to a large variety of finished products and uses.

The Benefits of Algae

Even though there are numerous benefits associated with algae, there are also downsides or concerns that both manufacturers and consumers need to take into account. Traditionally, algae production and cultivation were not carefully monitored and controlled, which meant that there was potentially dramatic quality variation. However, Kemin recognizes that its consumers were generally very health conscious and wanted to have the highest quality algae ingredients produced in a sustainable way.  When grown responsibly, algae can be grown year round and take up a small footprint compared to traditional cropping systems.

Kemin also sees the potential of products from algae as the global algae market continues to explode as more and more products of algae are identified. In fact, it has been estimated that the global algae market generates more than USD 1 billion in sales each year. Plus, this figure is likely to continue to grow. While the general algae market grows, Kemin expects the need for sustainable production of algae to explode. According to the Institute for Business Value, this is partly because more consumers are willing to pay a premium to purchase a green or sustainable product.

Selecting the “Right” Algae

At Kemin, we understand that not all algae are created equally. Of the more than 30,000 species of algae that exist, there are many different properties and some are better at getting certain results. For example, the Euglena gracilis species that we carefully cultivate and utilize is great at supporting immune health in people.1 Good immune health helps protect against a wide range of bacteria and viruses and also speeds up our recovery if we do catch a bug. This algae species can also be grown very efficiently in the right conditions.

Growing “Green” Algae 

Kemin works to make sure that Euglena gracilis is grown and cultivated in the most green and sustainable way possible, using a thoughtful and well-planned approach. This process begins by growing the algae in a controlled fermentation tank that ensures a highly consistent process. In this tank, the algae are fed a nutrient rich diet that allows them to multiply quickly. Then, each day, a large number of these algae are removed from the tank and pasteurized and dried without relying on harsh chemicals or other additives. This process allows Kemin to grow algae year round without being impacted by changing weather conditions. This green approach, including our approach to packaging and shipping, truly sets us apart from our competitors.

Another great feature of Kemin’s green approach to algae cultivation is that it is easy for us to scale up or down our production based on customer demands. This means that algae do not go to waste — and neither do any of the other nutrients or ingredients that are used in this process. The Kemin approach also uses water efficiently to grow and cultivate its algae without generating any hazardous waste, which is important for the environment.


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References:

  1. Evans, M., et al., Effect of a Euglena gracilis Fermentate on Immune Function in Healthy, Active Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.  Nutrients, 2019, 11(12), 2926
  2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3576896/
  3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Acekpww5iuM&t=1153s
  4. https://www.google.com/url?q=https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qWw6AOcGZn8_HprfC02_SqWP1kNfcSrx/edit?usp%3Dsharing%26ouid%3D106857715373414059877%26rtpof%3Dtrue%26sd%3Dtrue&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1660925668015606&usg=AOvVaw3TQR5S2uVBKXLyGtXWHqTI

These statements have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

The information on this webpage is a business-to-business information and not intended for the final consumer. Certain statements may not be applicable in all geographical regions. Product labeling and associated claims differs based upon government requirements and country or region specific information should also be considered when labeling or advertising to final consumers.

This web page and its associated brochures and other documents do not constitute or provide scientific or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and are distributed without warranty of any kind, either expressly or implied. This web page, its title or contents and associated brochures and other documents do not in any way make recommendations for health or marketing claims by the reader. Country and region specific regulations should be considered in this regard. Each claim or statement about the effectiveness of Kemin products and/or each claim or statement comparing the effectiveness of Kemin products to the effectiveness of other products is expressly limited to the United States, unless otherwise disclosed on the Kemin websites.

 

BetaVia™ Algae-Based Beta Glucan Immune Support