Hype is building around algal protein, and supplement brands are taking notice. The plant protein might only dominate a small market segment, but its comprehensive nutrient profile, ease of use and supplemental potential are promising!
The Tiny Green Nutrient's Trend
Many companies consider algal protein to have a bright future. Microalgae, specifically, is poised to grow in popularity as soy becomes a familiar protein source staple. Microalgae is 50 to 60 percent protein . Unlike soy protein products, microalgae can be utilized as a whole-food ingredient which provides more than protein alone.
Algal protein, typically, exists alongside vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C and vitamin E. Consumers also benefit from a healthy dosage of fat and fiber with each serving. Normally, Spirulina or Chlorella microalgae species are consumed. However, Chlorella algae is more protein-abundant.
Some companies are growing algal proteins via fermentation. In doing so, they can secure sustainable production processes. These processes can result in brands creating twice as much protein as competing companies providing pea, soy and rice proteins.
Algal Protein is Being Searched Frequently
Because algae proteins are gaining prominence as plant protein alternatives, they’re being marketed as pseudo-amino-acid products. The complete protein, itself, is incredibly beneficial to the body’s metabolic processes—such as enzyme production. Because algal protein has an extensive fatty acid profile containing omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, consumer hype is boosting Internet searches for algal protein products.
The algal protein market revenue is expected to hold a CAGR of about 6.5 percent between 2018 and 2023. In 2016, its market value was about $61 million. By 2023, algal protein is expected to have a market revenue of $120 million.
Benefits of Algal Protein
As a supplement, algal protein holds numerous benefits. Primarily, consumers buy algal protein supplements for their weight loss potential. Algal protein contains fucoxanthin, which is a naturally occurring pigment which promotes fat burning while boosting thermogenin.
Some studies suggest that algal proteins can fight cancer, too. Several experimental animal studies have covered algae’s inhibitory effects of oral cancer. Others, meanwhile, consider algae’s potential for fighting precancerous mouth sores.
Algal proteins are seemingly heart-healthy nutrients, too. The risk of cardiovascular disease—and even nonalcoholic fatty liver disease—is seemingly lowered when an individual consumes algal protein to improve blood lipid profiles. Because algal proteins can prevent oxidative stress and inflammation, they’re excellent additions to at-risk consumer diets.
Joining the Trend as a Supplement Brand
Algal proteins might’ve been consumed since the 14th century by Aztec civilizations, but their use as modern supplements is undeniable. In the 1830s, algae was categorized by its color. Now, algae food and protein providers can categorize algae by its structure and health benefits.
Some supplement brands have adopted algal proteins as part of their detox supplement lines. Meanwhile, other brands market the same algal proteins as pro-immune-system products. Algal oil, too, is a popular supplement brands can sell to mass audiences. Derived from algae, algal oil is a popular vegan alternative to fish oil supplements.
Getting involved in the algal protein craze isn’t hard. As more scientific research supports its use for chronic health concerns, consumers will seek out brands providing algal proteins as vegan-alternative products. Algal proteins need only be offered from a reputable source and undergo testing to be clear of dangerous contaminants.
Finding Your Best Option
Because algal proteins can be consumed in several ways, it’s a good idea to discuss your options with a sales rep before crafting your own algal protein line. If you want to cater to the vegan-alternative supplement market segment, you should consider creating an algal oil line.
Similarly, your algal protein supplement line should benefit consumers seeking a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. Algal proteins, fortunately, can be adopted into most supplement lines with ease.
Taste, too, is an important factor. Because algal proteins are consumed as bulky powders, crafting the perfect-tasting algal protein lineup will take time. Today’s supplement providers can market algal proteins as smoothie ingredients. Or, they can create a capsule product line. Talk to your sales representative at today, and pick the best algal protein line your customers will love!
