Natural astaxanthin currently commands a high price as a potent antioxidant for dietary supplements and cosmetics. Most of this supply relies on photosynthetic microalgae grown in open ponds or photobioreactors. Hawaii-based Kuehnle AgroSystems is preparing to change this process through dark fermentation. The company recently secured Series B funding to scale its production methods as it moves its operations to the Bay Area.
Kuehnle AgroSystems uses a non-GMO strain of algae that grows on acetic acid rather than sugar. This approach represents an industry first. CEO Claude Kaplan reports that the company has already proven the technology in 6,000-liter bioreactors. They are now working toward commercial production targets in the 50,000-liter range. By moving away from light-based cultivation, the company aims to avoid the contamination risks and land requirements associated with traditional open-pond systems.
The company is coordinating with Corbion to manage the technical and regulatory requirements needed to bring the product to market. This partnership benefits from Corbion's existing expertise in algae processing. Regulatory approval pathways in the United States and Europe will focus on demonstrating that the fermentation-derived product matches the profile of currently authorized astaxanthin.
Market demand for natural astaxanthin continues to outpace available supply. While aquaculture represents a massive volume opportunity, the initial commercial strategy targets the nutraceutical sector. These products command higher prices and suffer from current manufacturing constraints. The team hopes to release a market-ready product by the end of next year to address these supply gaps.