A UK university is part of a consortium seeking a coordinator for a bio-based industries funding call. The call is aimed at the multi-valorisation of micro-algae into a high-value additive and they are seeking food companies capable of processing algal ingredients (specifically microalga Dunaliella salina) into new foods or cosmetics, via a research development agreement.
In a context of growing demand for resources, sustainably capturing the potential of the seas, oceans and inland waters is critical for Europe. Micro-algae represent an additional source of biomass that can be used for various applications. They also have the advantage of a low land requirement. They provide only ~0.3% of world food tonnage (2014 figures) but this is growing.
Different cultivation systems to grow algae include open-sea, shallow-water, coastal areas and inland waters. There are specific systems for micro-algae like open ponds, photoreactors or bioreactors. Each system requires specific adaptation to its environment to maximise the biomass output, while minimising environmental impact (for example effluents, land use) and ensuring appropriate value chain logistics and conversion processes.
The specific challenge of the call applied for by this consortium is to set up and operate a value chain for micro-algae production and logistics (harvest, transportation, storage) that can be used for their multi-valorisation into added-value chemicals and materials, through a cascading approach where applicable.
The consortium currently consists of companies and researchers from seven European countries, including Spain and Germany, as well as partners from Israel.
They are seeking established food or related companies with an interest in incorporating the proposed functional ingredients into new or existing products, and who would be able to strengthen the processing of algal biomass, via research cooperation agreement. The company sought might also be able to contribute to the production of the isomers of the carotenoids.
The anticipated product/ingredient could have medical or food applications, as well as possible cosmetic uses.
Deadline for the call: 7 September 2017
Deadline in EOIs in this profile: 15 June 2017
- Specific area of activity of the partner: Type: Industry
Activity of the partner: Food ingredient producers or food companies seeking algae as a potential functional ingredient.
Specific role of partner sought: They are seeking a company that can strengthen the processing of algal biomass, or might be able to introduce algal biomass to a developed product. The company sought might also be able to contribute to the production of the isomers of the carotenoids. The anticipated product/ingredient would have a wide range of applications, including as food ingredients, nutraceuticals, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, healthcare.
Evaluation scheme: Single-stage submission scheme
Acronym: DISCOVERING AND DELIVERING VITALITY: THE MICROALGAL VALUE CHAIN
Duration: 208 week(s)
Deadline: 07/09/2017
Coordinator required: Yes
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