Corbion, Kuehnle AgroSystems partner to develop Astaxanthin from algae fermentation
The product is designed for both the human and animal nutrition markets, particularly well-suited for nutraceuticals and aquaculture applications.
U.S.A. – Corbion, the Amsterdam-based global leader in sustainable ingredients, and US-based biotech company Kuehnle AgroSystems (KAS) have partnered to develop and commercialize a high-quality, natural astaxanthin derived from non-GMO heterotrophic algae.
Astaxanthin, a red-orange carotenoid pigment, is among the most potent antioxidants found in nature.
Naturally occurring in microalgae, salmon, and shrimp, it is recognized for its health benefits in human nutrition, including support for eye, skin, and immune health, and as a critical feed additive in aquaculture to enhance fish pigmentation, performance, and resilience.
Currently, the majority of astaxanthin on the market is either synthetically manufactured for aquaculture or produced from phototrophic microalgae for nutraceuticals.
Corbion and KAS are addressing a growing demand for clean-label, sustainable alternatives by producing astaxanthin through controlled fermentation of non-GMO heterotrophic Haematococcus algae.
This closed-system method offers consistent quality, scalability, and reduced dependency on sunlight or outdoor cultivation, making it more reliable and environmentally friendly.
The partnership is focused on developing an esterified form of astaxanthin enriched with the most bioavailable isomer.
This format delivers superior antioxidant performance, enhanced fat solubility, and improved stability, benefits critical for both dietary supplements and high-value aquafeed applications.
Beyond its functional advantages, the approach supports traceability and reduces environmental impact compared to conventional sources.
“This partnership reinforces our commitment to sustainable, science-based solutions,” said Robert Jan de Voogd, General Manager of Algae Ingredients North America at Corbion. “KAS’ technology offers a strong platform to deliver premium natural astaxanthin to customers seeking clean-label alternatives.”
By combining KAS’s proprietary algae fermentation platform with Corbion’s industrial-scale production, regulatory expertise, and global market access, the companies aim to make algae-derived antioxidants more accessible to both human and animal nutrition industries.
This collaboration also reflects a broader market shift toward bio-based ingredients and renewable production systems.
“We’re proud to collaborate with Corbion to scale our technology and make premium algae-derived antioxidants more accessible worldwide,” said Claude Kaplan, CEO of KAS.
Development and technical transfer have already begun, with further updates to follow as the project progresses.
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