Unilever and Algenuity partner to explore the use of microalgae protein

Unilever and biotech start-up Algenuity are announcing a new partnership to delve into the huge potential microalgae bring in innovating future foods for Unilever’s plant-based portfolio. Algenuity, which specializes in developing microalgae for use in consumer products, will work with the R&D team within Unilever’s Foods and Refreshment (F&R) division to explore ways of bringing foods made with microalgae to the market.

Developing alternative protein sources like microalgae represents a significant step forwards in the critical shift needed to an equitable and resilient food system. By 2050, the world will need to produce 70% more food to feed a growing population of 10 billion people. These foods will need to meet a high nutritional standard while reducing their impact on the environment.

Unilever and Algenuity recognize the key role that diverse, plant-based proteins like microalgae will play in transitioning towards this new food system. Chlorella vulgaris, a widely recognized (micro)algae, is a nutrient-rich, plant-based protein and fiber source with a low environmental footprint. Chlorella possesses several additional beneficial nutrients, including antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids. It has been consumed globally for many years, yet its high chlorophyll content, which gives plants their green color and a bitter taste and smell, has proven a barrier to its inclusion in mainstream diets.

Innovative technology unlocks new potential

Algenuity has developed innovative technology to overcome this limitation. Its Chlorella Colors palette claims to significantly reduce the chlorophyll content of microalgae while still allowing them to retain their natural nutrients. This unlocks a wealth of potential applications for microalgae in the food and beverage sector. It brings the opportunity to develop a sustainable source of protein that meets increasing consumer demand for nutritious foods that taste great.

“Microalgae offer much-untapped potential as a viable, climate-friendly protein alternative,” says Alejandro Amezquita, Future Bio-based Ingredients R&D director, Unilever F&R. “They have a significant part to play in food system transformation. We are very much looking forward to working with Algenuity to explore the possibilities of making foods that contain microalgae more mainstream.”

Andrew Spicer, chief executive officer and founder of Algenuity says, “We are delighted to partner with Unilever on this. Our Chlorella Colors platform offers plant-based ingredients that are sustainable, natural, non-GM and protein-rich with neutral flavors. They are also vegan-friendly making them extremely relevant for today’s growing consumer appetite for more plant-based foods with additional functional benefits.”

“We are very excited about the huge potential working with Algenuity brings to advance nutritious foods that taste great and are a force for good,” says Manfred Aben, vice president Science and Technology R&D and Site Leader of Hive, Unilever’s Global Foods Innovation Centre, in Wageningen. “Transitioning to a sustainable food system requires all of us to work together. It’s one of the world’s greatest challenges and will not happen without partnerships and collaborations. This is what our Hive ecosystem is all about. We are delighted to welcome Algenuity to our community.”