State of the art

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs) are critical for human and animal health as they serve as essential precursors to immune-promoting bioactive molecules. Currently, the primary source of ω-3 PUFAs in human and animal diets is derived from wild-caught fish consisting of eicosapentaenoic fatty acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic fatty acid (DHA). The exponential increase in the global demand for ω-3 PUFAs within the food and feed sectors over the past two decades has led to an expansion of the fish-oil industry. This, however, has contributed to the depletion of oceanic fish stocks and placed an enormous strain on the marine ecosystem. A sustainable source of ω-3 PUFAs to replace fish oil is urgently needed.

EPA-rich microalgae species have diverse metabolic pathways that allow them to perform the dual role of environmental bioremediation and co-generation of valuable bioproducts. They can capture CO₂ through photosynthesis (autotrophic mode) while assimilating waste nutrients and sugars in a mixotrophic mode to synthesise EPA. They can therefore provide a win-win solution for both the brewing industry and the ω-3 producers.

AlgaeBrew aims to develop scalable processes for the use of microalgae to valorise brewery effluents into high-value EPA for the animal feed industries. The project will establish a novel circular bioeconomy value chain, providing the beer industry with a commercially attractive waste upcycling strategy to be compliant with the EU Water Framework Directive and the target set by the EU 2019 New Waste Framework Directive of recycling 60% of municipal waste by 2030, and the food and feed sectors with sustainable EPA.

Additionally, AlgaeBrew will explore the use of the algal biomass residue remaining after EPA extractions as a soil biofertiliser, adhering to the zero-waste principle and gaining full environmental benefits of the value chain.