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síbiotech - Photobioreactor-based Microalgae Cultivation Technology for Omega-3 Extraction

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síbiotech has embarked on an advanced research project focusing on the cultivation of microalgae in photobioreactors, aimed at large-scale extraction of Omega-3 fatty acids. This initiative involves the use of a 0.15 m3 laboratory-scale bioreactor, with plans to scale up to pilot and industrial-scale systems reaching 30 m3, capable of yielding up to 600 kg of dry biomass monthly by the end of 2024. The automated photobioreactor ensures precise control over the cultivation cycle, enhancing repeatability and uniformity of biomass. The innovative process aligns with biotechnological techniques used in synthesizing active pharmaceutical ingredients. By utilizing microalgae cultivation, síbiotech offers a sustainable alternative to extracting valuable Omega-3s, typically sourced from fish, avoiding environmental damage and ensuring purity free from harmful compounds. This sustainable extraction uses supercritical fluid technology with CO2, enhancing the quality and environmental accountability of Omega-3, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which is vital due to its health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.

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síbiotech’s research and development team has initiated the implementation of a research project and experimental development to establish cultivation processes for three different microalgae species in photobioreactors. The aim is to propagate them on a large scale and extract Omega-3 fatty acids.

síbiotech conducts microalgae cultivation in a laboratory-scale bioreactor system with a total volume of 0.15 m3.

However, by the end of 2024, the plan is to introduce pilot and industrial-scale photobioreactor systems with a total volume of up to 30 m3, producing up to 600 kg of dry biomass per month.

síbiotech’s photobioreactor system is fully automated, providing complete control over the cultivation cycle, ensuring repeatability and biomass uniformity for subsequent processing stages.

Microalgae Cultivation Process

The microalgae cultivation process occurs in two phases:

  • In the first phase, conditions and parameters are selected to promote biomass growth in the shortest period.
  • In the second phase, adjustments are made to the cultivation process, such as changes in light intensity, temperature, pH level, and other parameters, redirecting microalgae biochemical processes towards fatty acid biosynthesis.

Technology ensures sustainable extraction of fatty acids

Historically, valuable and irreplaceable fatty acids were obtained from fish, fish oil, and other marine products. However, extraction from these sources is unsustainable, contributing to overfishing and environmental concerns. By cultivating microalgae in controlled conditions within photobioreactors, síbiotech mitigates these risks.

The microalgae grown in controlled environments do not contain harmful compounds or heavy metals, ensuring a sustainable and environmentally friendly source of fatty acids. Furthermore, products derived from this process are vegan-friendly, appealing to a broader audience.

From the microalgae cultivated in the photobioreactor, síbiotech plans to extract a combination of Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants for a novel and unique product. The developed extract is intended for encapsulation in soft shell capsules, and comprehensive evaluations of safety, effectiveness, and bioavailability will be conducted through clinical trials.

Health Impact of Omega-3 (Eicosapentaenoic Acid, EPA)

Current scientific research explores and examines three Omega-3 fatty acids crucial in physiological processes: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). While ALA is a plant-derived Omega-3 fatty acid that must be obtained through diet, EPS and DHS are synthesised in the body in minimal quantities. EPA and DHA are commonly obtained from fish or fish oil and microalgae products.

On the market, products containing Omega-3 fatty acids derived from microalgae, primarily DHA, are already available. In síbiotech’s project, the main criterion for microalgae selection revolves around maximising the concentration of Omega-3, with a specific focus on eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).

EPA, a polyunsaturated Omega-3 fatty acid, exhibits various health-promoting properties, including:

  • Powerful anti-inflammatory effects
  • Reduction of the risk of cardiovascular diseases
  • Lowering blood pressure and triglyceride levels
  • Anticancer and antidepressant properties
  • Anti-aging and antioxidant effects

Recent studies reveal that EPA possesses a robust anti-inflammatory and insulin sensitivity-improving effect in individuals with metabolic disorders.

Microalgae Extraction Using Modern and Sustainable Technology

The combination of Omega-3 EPA and antioxidants from microalgae is intended to be obtained using a modern and sustainable technology: supercritical fluid extraction with carbon dioxide (CO2). The key advantages of this method include:

  • Efficient extraction of fatty acids and fat-soluble bioactive compounds without chemical modification, preserving their natural chemical form for effective bioavailability in the body.
  • Extraction ensures the obtainment of clean, fat-soluble compounds. Given that CO2 does not dissolve these substances, extracts contain no unwanted impurities, including ash and heavy metals, proteins, fibers, and allergens.
  • Concentrated and effective extracts are obtained in small doses.
  • The extraction method employs natural CO2 subjected to pressure and moderate temperature, maintaining a gentle approach to obtaining bioactive components.
  • Due to the pressure during extraction, the obtained extracts exhibit microbiological stability. Additionally, the extraction process avoids contact with oxygen, which is crucial for preventing fatty acids from oxidation.
  • The extraction process does not involve the use of organic solvents. After extraction, CO2 returns to a gaseous state and is separated from the obtained extract. This technology is deemed ‘solvent-free.
  • Environmentally friendly, the extraction process involves the recirculation of CO2 for subsequent extraction cycles, preventing its release into the atmosphere.

These advancements signify síbiotech’s commitment to innovative and sustainable practices in the pursuit of high-quality and environmentally conscious products.”