Food-Grade Biorefinery Processing of Macroalgae at Scale: Considerations, Observations and Recommendations

Abstract

Using brown seaweed kelp species Saccharina latissima and Laminaria digitata as feedstocks, a set of pilot-scale macroalgae processing batches were conducted (50–200 kg per batch) for the production of a range of food-grade liquid and solid fractions. The aim of this communication is to relay a number of lessons learnt during this period in combination with previous relevant observations and considerations for others who are intending to process macroalgae at scale. The novelty of this paper is thus to form a bridge between academic findings and practical know-how. Considerations covers material diversity; abiotic and biotic impact and variation; and supply chain considerations. Observations covers milling and cutting; equipment requirements; and acids including their effects on heavy metals, especially lead. Recommendations summarises key points from this pilot-scale and previous work. These include: harvest seasonality, water quality and proximity to processing facilities; minimising contaminants within the macroalgae such as stones and shells; considering equipment composition and volume for all steps and processes including final product quality; acid choice and its effects on both the equipment used and the metals bioaccumulated within the macroalgae.

Paramylon and Other Bioactive Molecules in Micro and Macroalgae

“…Humans are unable to synthetize most of these molecules or synthetize them in too low amounts, and external administration in the diet is strongly recommended to avoid dangerous deficits. Hence, the importance of safe dietary supplements with long-term physiological health benefits, even though their effects can be mild compared to those of pharmaceutical products [ 2 , 3 , 4 ].…”