Unilever teams up with Algenuity to explore microalgae protein usage

Global FMCG firm Unilever has partnered with biotech start-up Algenuity to explore the usage of microalgae protein in its plant-based food portfolio.

Based in the UK, Algenuity is engaged in the development of microalgae that can be used in consumer products.

Algenuity founder and CEO Andrew Spicer said: “We are delighted to partner with Unilever on this. Our Chlorella Colours platform provides plant-based ingredients that are sustainable, natural, non-GM and protein-rich with neutral flavours.

“They are also vegan-friendly, making them extremely relevant for today’s growing consumer appetite for more plant-based foods with additional functional benefits.”

Under the new partnership, Algenuity will be working with Unilever’s Foods and Refreshment (F&R) division’s research and development (R&D) team, as well as focus on exploring new ways to produce foods using microalgae and launch them in the market.

Algenuity noted that Chlorella vulgaris, a microalgae, is a plant-based source of protein and contains nutrients and fibre and has a low environmental footprint.

Chlorella is also said to contain other nutrients such as antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids.

Algenuity’s Chlorella Colours palette technology is said to have been designed to minimise the chlorophyll content of microalgae while retaining the natural nutrients.

Both Unilever and Algenuity anticipate that the plant-based proteins such as microalgae would play a key role in transitioning towards this new food system.

Unilever’s Global Foods Innovation Centre Wageningen Science and Technology R&D vice-president and Hive site leader Manfred Aben said: “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.

“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.”

Last December, Unilever opened its new global Foods Innovation Centre on Wageningen campus in the Netherlands.

The facility focusses on research in areas such as plant-based ingredients, meat alternatives, efficient crops, sustainable food packaging, and nutritious foods.