Nutramara

Problem statement

Developing marine molecules for next generation clean, sustainable, healthy consumer products for daily life.

Executive summary

NutraMara’s core technology platform is based on low carbon industrial biotechnology, enabling production of high value functional marine molecules, extracts and ingredients, from macroalgae in a sustainable and conscious way

Value chain description

NutraMara has invested significantly in the development of novel bioprocesses, free from harsh chemicals, with low temperatures and energy requirements, in which 100% of the biomass is converted to several functional ingredients. This biorefinery approach is state-of-the-art in clean manufacturing, and generates a range of products from a single input (in this case seaweed) that can meet a range of consumer needs. The cascade generates a menu of functional bioactive ingredients for new value chains from aquaculture to the food, beverage, feed, and cosmetic and nutraceutical product sectors

Market deployment considerations

The global marine biotechnology market size was reached at USD 5.9 billion in 2022 and it is projected to hit around USD 11.7 billion by 2032 and anticipated to increase at a CAGR of 7.09% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2032.

Environmental considerations

The seaweeds used in the NutraMara bioprocess are harvested by hand along the western seaboard. This is done in a very traditional and respectful way ensuring enough of the stipe remains to encourage regeneration of the plant. Zero waste isolation and extraction for array of molecules contributing to blue economy. This is evidenced in NutraMara’s Origin Green Gold status and marine bioactive certifications as organic, vegan and halal.

Social Considerations

The research outputs are directly relevant to Irish seaweed producers, as well as consumers of Irish seaweed products, creating secondary source of revenue for seaweed farmers.

Stakeholders Involved

Seaweed suppliers, Technology providers, Irish manufacturers and suppliers (cosmetic, supplements and nutraceutical value chain), Packaging companies

Feedstock used

Seaweed (Fucus vesiculosus, Ascophyllum nodosum, Laminaria digitata)

TRL

5

Value Chain name

Nutramara

Type of process

Harvesting and Biochemical extraction

Technology output

a) Seabody (marine based nutraceuticals and cosmetics) b) Blue Pet co (organic seaweed complexes and micronutrients, c) Seatheory (Supplements and topicals designed to support bone health and natural hair growth)

Processing capacity point of view (annual feedstock requirement)

NA

Country

Ireland

Year

2017