Value Omega 3 and Astaxanthin products from SeaAlgae (VOPSA2.0)

VOPSA2.0 was a two-year project funded by EU Horizon 2020, aimed at proposing microalgae source to obtain compounds such as Omega-3 and Astaxanthin, and use them in cosmetic and nutraceutical products.

Tangible results: The project developed a novel extraction technology that obtains pure omega-3 fatty acids and astaxanthin pigment from microalgae. The production system does not affect the marine ecosystem (fish and krill populations) and tackles overfishing issues since the marine ingredients are not extracted from fish but are produced from vegetable sources (microalgae). The technology also contributes to reducing the ecological footprint since the extraction bioprocess is characterised by low energy consumption.
The following products are at commercial stage for human consumption: astaxanthin (which is characterised as an organic red pigment called Carotenoid and prevents the cells from oxidant stress and has powerful antioxidant properties8 ), omega 3 oils; capsules of Spirulina and astaxanthin; Also, the development of the advanced systems Bicomage3 and Bicoxanthin led to the new BICOSOME skinline H creams (with H. Pluvialis extract) composed of two products: Bicoalgae® Omega 3 and Bicoalgae® Xanthin that treat wrinkles, atopic skin disorders and acne due to its anti-inflammatory and high antioxidant properties.
Both companies BICOSOME and NEOALGAE had reached a commercial pre-arrangement about the supply of omega 3 and Astaxanthin oil for the production of the products.

Application/relevance: The project relevance is vital for nutraceutical, cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications (i.e. human consumption, topical creams for skincare). The extracted Omega-3 and astaxanthin oils provide healthy nutrients, support human health and add value to the diversification of products (processing and packaging aquaculture products). Due to its plant-based origin, the product is also considered vegan friendly.