Antioxidant protein from yellow chlorella through precision fermentation

Overview

Sophie's BioNutrients presents an innovative solution for sustainable and health-promoting plant-based protein production using yellow chlorella. By leveraging precision fermentation, we have developed a process to produce lutein and bioactive peptides with significant antioxidant properties. This approach not only offers a nutritious alternative protein source but also ensures a low carbon footprint production method. Our chlorella-derived proteins are particularly beneficial for eye and neural tissue health due to their antioxidant capabilities, as well as providing technofunctional properties suitable for various food applications.

Technical specifications

Our proprietary process utilizes a specific chlorella strain capable of autotrophic and heterotrophic growth, rich in lutein and bioactive peptides. Lutein, a xanthophyll carotenoid, interacts with reactive species and cell membranes, offering synergistic antioxidant action. Additionally, this chlorella protein hydrolysate provides technofunctional benefits such as foaming, emulsification, solubility, water and oil holding capacities. The mature bioprocess is designed to decouple production from traditional agricultural methods, enabling consistent industrial-scale production.

Technology readiness level

Our technology is at TRL 6, indicating that it has been demonstrated in a relevant environment and is ready for scale-up. The roadmap includes small-scale optimization of lutein production, technical optimization of downstream processes, and scale-up to large pilot or small industrial scale. We are also focused on validating the bioactive and technofunctional properties of our chlorella biomass flour for inclusion in food products, along with ensuring quality and food safety standards are met.