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 expanded microbial protein production using agricultural by-products. Innovations such as aquavoltaic systems combine solar energy with microalgae cultivation, and modified microalgae are used to combat infections in crustaceans. To learn more about these exciting advances, explore the latest in marine science.

AQUICULTURE

European Health Security Authority approves new method for producing 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, developed by the French company Fermentalg. The oil can be used in foods, supplements, and aquaculture as a sustainable alternative to fish oil, confirming its safety and suitability for use in protein products within the specified DHA limits.

Mis Peces
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Pioneer in microbial protein increases production

MicroHarvest, a biotechnology company based in Hamburg, has increased its microbial protein production to ten tons per day, using agricultural by-products as raw material and offering a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to traditional animal proteins. This milestone highlights its ability to meet commercial demand, and the company is collaborating with global aquatic feed producers to validate its protein for use in salmon and shrimp feed.

This Fish Site
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Aquavoltaic systems: an innovation in microalgae cultivation

The combination of solar panels and microalgae cultivation in bodies of water dedicated to aquaculture could become a revolutionary solution for the joint production of microalgae biomass and electricity. Solar panels play a key role in thermal regulation, with covered tanks being on average 5°C cooler than those exposed directly to sunlight. This helps to stabilize oxygen and pH levels, which are vital for microalgae health.

Mis Peces
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LIVE MARINE RESOURCES

Fertilizer made from fish by-products

The fertilizer advertised is produced from the processing of fish and other aquatic by-products, such as heads, fins, tails, and bones, which are normally discarded. These by-products are separated based on their mineral content to produce fertilizers with different nutritional and decomposition properties, which improve plant growth, soil health, and the production of flowers, fruits, and vegetables.

Patentscope
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MARINE BIOTECHNOLOGY

Modified microalgae and their use in aquaculture

The invention provides modified microalgae comprising double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) that targets Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei, and methods for producing and using the modified microalgae in aquaculture. In some embodiments, it includes compositions, such as feed additives and feed pellets, comprising the modified microalgae and methods for preparing them. A method for inhibiting a pathogenic infection by Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei in a crustacean is also presented, comprising administering to the crustacean the modified microalgae described herein or a composition containing them.

Patentscope
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Use of interferon as an adjuvant in vaccines

Sequences of salmon interferon useful as adjuvants in vaccines for fish are disclosed. Vaccines for fish using said interferon sequences and methods for preventing infections in fish using these vaccines are also disclosed.

Patentscope
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Microalgae extract may improve cognitive function in older adults: Clinical Study

A study with a patented microalgae ingredient derived from Phaeodactylum tricornutum Mi136.M1.a involved 43 adults aged 55 to 75 who had cognitive and memory decline. Over 12 weeks, participants received a daily dose of 1100 mg of the patented ingredient and underwent cognitive testing and blood tests at the start of the study, after four weeks, and at the end of 12 weeks. The results assessed improvements in executive function, attention, and short- and long-term memory. In addition, the study evaluated stress, mood, sleep quality, and potential side effects based on self-reports.

Nutrients
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