Algene Holding SE has reported positive interim results from a scientific study conducted with the Chair of Aquatic Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), led by Prof. Dr. Jurgen Geist. The study examines the use of Algene's high-purity Spirulina microalgae as a feed component in industrial shrimp farming. After only a few days of testing, statistically significant differences in consumption rates emerged between a control group fed without Spirulina and a group receiving feed enriched with 100% Spirulina. These early findings suggest the Algene product positively influences shrimp growth and could deliver substantial economic advantages for aquaculture producers if confirmed.
The implications are significant given the scale of the global aquaculture market, which market studies project will grow from USD 653.8 billion in 2026 to USD 1.2 trillion by 2034, a compound annual growth rate of 7.3%. Aquaculture encompasses the breeding, rearing, and harvesting of fish, shellfish, and aquatic plants. Algene's entry into this sector with a natural microalgae feed ingredient positions the company to tap into a market with rising demand for sustainable feed solutions. Final study results, expected in November, would serve as a proof of concept for Algene's approach and could accelerate its commercial entry. The company is already in advanced discussions with potential customers in the sector.
Kai Maximilian Keller, CEO of Algene Holding SE, stated that the interim results are extremely promising and indicate the potential for significant positive economic impacts within the aquaculture industry. He noted that TUM provides a strong academic partner for tapping into new growth markets, and that the study's successful conclusion in a few weeks is set to provide a major boost, with advanced customer discussions demonstrating strong demand for algae-based products.
The announcement, detailed in the full release, underscores the growing role of microalgae in industrial food production. If the final results confirm the interim findings, Algene could establish itself as a supplier of a natural feed additive that enhances both consumption and growth in shrimp farming, a sector where feed efficiency directly affects profitability. The study's outcome may also encourage broader adoption of Spirulina in other aquaculture applications, further validating the company's strategy.
