Israel - Algatechnologies, the leading producer of natural astaxanthin for nutraceuticals and food applications - has announced it is expanding its production capacity of astaxanthin. This expansion is a result of a growing global demand for astaxanthin, and of securing several long-term agreements with leading companies in the industry.

The expansion will take place in several phases. In the first phase the company will increase its capacity to reach a total production per year of 1.4 MT of astaxanthin. In the second phase the production capacity will reach 2-3 MT per year. "This is the first step in implementing our strategy  to maintain our leading position in the market for high-value natural astaxanthin. The market is ready to use this exciting carotenoid in several categories," says  Mr. Ed Hofland, chairman of Algatechnologies.

The company's algae biomass contains 4% astaxanthin. The company uses its technology to produce 100% astaxanthin.

Astaxanthin is a natural red pigment and the most important natural carotenoid in the marine world. Astaxanthin is a very potent antioxidant and is recognized as about 500 times more effective than vitamin E and much more powerful than beta carotene. Astaxanthin which can only be obtained through diet was found to have beneficial effects in many health conditions related to eye health, skincare health, CNS disorders and more.

The awareness for natural astaxanthin is increasing thanks to a large number of positive scientific studies indicating its effectiveness in maintaining human health.

"Our competitive edge lies in our exclusive proprietary and patented cultivation process which allows production of the most advanced ultra pure astaxanthin," explains Efrat Kat, Marketing Manager for Algatechnologies. “Moreover, it enables us to produce a cost-effective nutrient without compromising its high quality”.

Algatechnologies plant is located at the Arava desert, in Israel, an optimal location for cultivation of algae due to the high light intensity in the area all year round.

Algatechnologies produces astaxanthin from Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae in a totally closed, environmentally protected system which produces a biomass with the highest concentration of astaxanthin. This method eliminates the possibility of exposure to external pollutants and contaminants occurring in open pond algae system.

Another important advantage is the high quality controlled system that allows a very consistent production. The result is a natural ultra pure astaxanthin for human nutrition which could be a perfect choice for vegetarians as well.

For further information, please contact:
Ms.Efrat Kat
Marketing Manager
Algatechnologies Ltd.
E-mail: office@algatech.com
www.algatech.com