Advancing Our Laminaran R&D
Currently in active R&D, our sugar kelp (Saccharina latissima) program is built around a proprietary strain. Specifically, we’ve selected and optimized this strain for laminaran yield. Laminaran, notably, is a storage polysaccharide unique to brown macroalgae. Indeed, it’s under investigation as a functional feed additive with prebiotic and immune-modulating potential. This applies across aquaculture and livestock applications.
Developing a Standardized Ingredient
Our research team is developing cultivation and extraction processes calibrated specifically for this strain. Ultimately, we’re working toward a scalable, standardized laminaran ingredient. This is a category currently underserved by consistent, traceable plant-based sources.
Research Focus Areas
- Immune Modulation: Evaluating laminaran’s role in supporting natural immune response under production stress.
- Gut Health: Investigating prebiotic activity and its impact on digestive performance.
- Extraction Standardization: Refining processes to achieve consistent laminaran concentration and purity at scale.
Expanding Beyond Microalgae
This program, moreover, reflects our ongoing investment in expanding the functional potential of macroalgae. Specifically, it extends our reach beyond our current microalgae portfolio. Accordingly, we’ll share development milestones as this ingredient moves toward field trials and commercial validation.
