The Secret Life of Microalgae
Deep within the mineral-rich embrace of sulfuric hot springs, microalgae flourish in one of nature’s most selective environments. Deprived of light yet abundant in nutrients, these microscopic powerhouses have adapted to thrive in extreme acidity and darkness, cultivating reserves of glycogen—a natural polysaccharide renowned for its exceptional moisturizing properties.
By tapping into the extraordinary abilities of these extremophile microalgae, we unlock the potential of glycogen produced through a remarkable process: growing in the absence of light, nourished by sustainable feedstocks. This method not only mirrors the algae's natural habitat but also aligns with our commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Our Technology
Sustainable feedstock
We use locally sourced sugar from sugar beets and glycerin from plant oils such as rapeseed as our feedstock. Hereby, we keep our process regional and renewable.
Precision fermentation
Using precision fermentation*, our microalgae grow in the dark and convert the renewable feedstock into biomass and the highly branched glycogen.
Sustainable extraction
To get the glycogen pure for use, the product is extracted using a mechanical process, without harmful chemicals. Making not only our product but also our process sustainable.
* = Industry definition of Precision fermentation: a sub-category of fermentation, using biotechnological approaches and innovations for the controlled cultivation of selected and/or modified microbial cells, to produce specific substances. These fermentation-derived products can be a single molecule or multiple molecules purified from the fermentation broth or biomass.
Backed by Science
While we continue to innovate, our results are the foundation of what makes our product truly different. Want to dive deeper? Explore the research behind our breakthrough.
Martinez-Garcia, M., Stuart, M. C. A., & van der Maarel, M. J. E. C. (2016). Characterization of the highly branched glycogen from the thermoacidophilic red microalga Galdieria sulphuraria and comparison with other glycogens. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 89, 12-18. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2016.04.051
Martinez-Garcia, M., Kormpa, A., & van der Maarel, M. J. E. C. (2017). The glycogen of Galdieria sulphuraria as alternative to starch for the production of slowly digestible and resistant glucose polymers. Carbohydrate Polymers, 169, 75-82. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.carbpol.2017.04.004
Kristijarti, A. P., Jurak, E., & van der Maarel, M. J. E. C. (2024). The production and characteristics of glycogen synthesized by various strains of the thermoacidophilic red microalgae Galdieria grown heterotrophically. Journal of Applied Phycology, 36, 3199-3207. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10811-024-03353-4