From sugarcane to plant-based omega-3 thanks to algae fermentation

Corbion grows microalgae in closed fermentation tanks where they transform sustainable sugars into algae in a few days.

The production system for algae is fully circular: Corbion’s facility is located among the sugar cane fields next door to a sugar cane mill. Bagasse, a by-product from the sugar mill, is used as a renewable source of energy and fully powers the sugar mill and algae facility. All the water they use is repurposed as irrigation for the sugar cane fields, promoting responsible water management.

The algae are then used to produce omega-3 DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These fatty acids provide essential nutrients for humans and many animal diets: for instance, higher levels of omega-3s in feed support salmon health, by improving organ health and boosting the anti-inflammatory response.

Using omega-3 from algae in feed also has important benefits for nature and the climate, as it reduces dependency on traditional fish oil. Corbion is already able to substitute fish oil with algae oil (and vegetable oil). This decreases the pressure on limited marine fisheries stocks.

Data on this can be found online in an ISO-compliant life cycle assessment (LCA) study they co-authored.