Algae Protein – A Popular Trend in the Food and Beverage Industry

Algae protein is a type of protein that s plant-based in nature, which is usually derived from blue-green algae which can contain up to more protein than other sources approximately 50-60% protein that can be used in either food ingredients, as feed additives and cosmetics. Algae protein is high in nutritional value, amino acid quality omerga3s and other essential amino acids, which are more effective than other plant, based proteins. Algae-based proteins are of different types such as spirulina, chlorella, seaweed and others. Seaweed and microalgae are considered a viable sure of protein. The protein levels than other traditional protein sources such as meat, egg, soybean, and milk.

Algae proteins are extracted using some simple ways with high yields using classical solvent and enzymatic methods. The methods, which make the use of the dissolution of algae under reductive conditions in alkaline medium, are called classical methods. The protein that is left after that is a soluble protein and can easily be separated from the carbohydrates by acidic precipitation at low pH levels. However, the extraction of algae proteins by some of the classical methods is hindered by the presence of large amounts of mucus lining on the cell walls, which limit the potency and efficiency of the extraction method and process.

Algae protein is used in many of the end-user industries such as ass dietary supplements, food, food additives, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics. Algae-based proteins have been used in dietary supplements for quite some time are an essential and rich protein source. The pharmaceutical industry is also witnessing the use of algae protein in some of the medicines in order to supplement the mineral or vitamin deficiencies and hold the potential to increase over the forecast period.

Algae Protein Market, By Type Segment

Algae-protein is gaining popularity among users globally due to the various health benefits it provides and is used in many countries by people who either prefer a plant-based diet or are tending to shift towards veganism. Different types of these proteins can be used such as Spirulina, Chlorella, Seaweed, and others in order to supplement and enhance food items. Algae protein caters to end-user industries like Food and Beverage, Pharmaceuticals among others

Spirulina

Spirulina is a type of protein that is derived from blue-green algae and contains B-vitamins, beta-carotene, vitamin E. In addition, it also contains antioxidants, minerals, chlorophyll, and other essential nutrients. It is commonly used as a source of plant-based proteins and is popular amongst the vegan population.

Chlorella

Chlorella is synthesized from single-celled freshwater alga and is commonly found in Japan. It is very rich in proteins, vitamins, minerals and also omega 3 fatty acids, It is commonly processed before consumption, as it is difficult to digest in its natural form, Its use can boot the antibody count in the body and fight diseases such as cancer.

Seaweed

Seaweed is a type of multicellular algae that are generally classified under red, brown, green algae. It contains a high amount of fibers and proteins among other essential nutrients. It is commonly consumed in some counties of the Asia Pacific region. They are used in the preparation of other food items. The fat content in them is less and amino acid content is higher thus they have many health benefits.

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The people are getting health conscious and starting to shift their preference towards plant-based foods and plant-based proteins which are healthier than other types of protein-based foods which in increasing the demand for these foods. This will result in and boost in the market growth of the algae protein market. Moreover, the increasing trend of veganism among people in order to curb the negative effects of animal-based products on the bod overall health will also increase the demand for algae protein and bolster the market growth further. The market players are highly involved and participating in the market to improve and enhanced algae protein products and to encourage the use of such products among the people. For example, In August 2019, a company Plantsy has launched a range of beverages in the UK which are based on algae protein which is available in two flavors.

The product is a perfect source of plant protein and has a range of health benefits. Another company, ADM has partnered up with algae cultivator company Qualitas Health to offer three different Onavita DHA and Almega EPA blends. These blends contain omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9. On October 15, 2018, KYN Capital Group Inc. announced that it had completed the acquisition of Algae World Inc., which is a manufacturer of algae protein products that are derived from blue-green algae and has many subsidiaries worldwide.  Also, In May 2019, Solbia group a producer of cosmetic products and pharmaceutical products made from synthesizing plant-based ingredients like algae protein announced that they have acquired the Algatech, an Israeli cultivator of microalgae which is based in Southern Israel. The deal was estimated to be confirmed at around d $100 million.

Conclusion:

Currently, Spirulina type of algae protein is expected to hold a significant share in this market and is anticipated to witness a fast growth rate in the upcoming years due to the burgeoning demand from many health-conscious people as there has been an increase in the vegan and plant-based food consuming population.  With respect to current market trends, it is anticipated that the Seaweed type of algae protein will flourish in the upcoming years with demand being generated owing to the high amount of seaweed consuming countries like Japan, China and Korea from the Asia Pacific region as it forms an essential part of their diet. The growing need for a plant-based and organic protein source, which have limited health effects as compared to animal-based protein products.  This is one of the major factors which will continue to play a role in driving this market and will attract a lot of new entrants who will bring new and better changes and enhancement in algae protein products. Thus, the market will remain competitive in the upcoming years and it is projected to show modest growth in the upcoming years.