B2E Technological Sonar Initiative #37
Recent scientific advances are reshaping food production and sustainability. The European Food Safety Authority has approved a sustainable omega-3 oil from microalgae, while MicroHarvest has scaled up microbial protein production using agricultural by-products. Innovations like aquavoltaic systems combine solar energy with microalgae cultivation, and engineered microalgae are used to combat crustaceans’ infections. To learn more about these exciting breakthroughs, explore the latest updates in marine science.
AQUACULTURE
European Health Safety Authority approves new production method for omega-3 oil from microalgae
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has approved the use of omega-3 DHA-enriched oil derived from the microalgae Schizochytrium limacinum, which was developed by the French company Fermentalg. The oil can be used in food, supplements, and aquaculture as a sustainable fish oil alternative, confirming its safety and suitability for use in protein products within specified DHA limits.
Mis Peces
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Microbial protein pioneer ramps up production
MicroHarvest, a biotechnology company in Hamburg, has increased its microbial protein production to ten tons per day, using agricultural by-products as feedstock and offering a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to traditional animal proteins. This milestone highlights its capacity to meet commercial demand, and the company is collaborating with global aquafeed producers to validate its protein for use in salmon and shrimp feeds.
This Fish Site
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Aquavoltaic systems: an innovation in microalgae cultivation
The combination of solar panels and microalgae cultivation in water bodies dedicated to aquaculture could become a revolutionary solution for the joint production of microalgae biomass and electricity. Solar panels play a critical role in thermal regulation, with covered ponds being, on average, 5°C cooler than those exposed directly to sunlight. This helps stabilize oxygen and pH levels, which are vital elements for the health of microalgae.
Mis Peces
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LIVING MARINE RESOURCES
Fertilizer made from fish by-products
The disclosed fertilizer is made by processing fish and other aquatic by-products, such as heads, fins, tails, and bones, which are typically discarded. These by-products are separated based on their mineral content to produce fertilizer with varying nutritional and decomposing properties that enhances plant growth, soil health, and the production of flowers, fruits, and vegetables.
Patentscope
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MARINE BIOTECHNOLOGY
Engineered microalgae and use in aquaculture
The invention provides engineered microalgae comprising a double stranded RNA (dsRNA) that targets Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei, and methods of making and using the engineered microalgae in aquaculture. In some embodiments, it includes compositions, such as feed additives and feed pellets, comprising the engineered microalgae, and methods of preparing same. Further provided is a method of inhibiting a pathogenic Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei infection in a crustacean, the method comprising administering to the crustacean the engineered microalgae described herein or composition comprising the same.
Patentscope
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Use of interferon as an adjuvant in vaccines
Disclosed are salmon interferon sequences useful as adjuvants in fish vaccines. Also disclosed are fish vaccines utilizing said interferon sequences and methods for prevention of fish infections utilizing these vaccines.
Patentscope
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Microalgae extract may enhance cognitive function in older adults: Clinical Study
A study on a patented microalgae ingredient derived from Phaeodactylum tricornutum Mi136.M1.a involved 43 adults aged between 55 and 75 who were experiencing memory and cognitive decline. Over 12 weeks, participants received a daily dose of 1100 mg of the patented ingredient, undergoing cognitive tests and blood analyses at baseline, after four weeks, and at the end of 12 weeks. The results evaluated improvements in executive function, attention, and short- and long-term memory. Additionally, the study assessed stress, mood, sleep quality, and potential side effects based on self-reports.
Nutrients
