Oterra, VAXA Technologies introduce carbon-neutral spirulina-based color

ICELAND – A new natural color solution, Arctic Blue, has emerged from a partnership between Oterra, a leading producer of natural food colors, and Icelandic high-tech startup VAXA Technologies. 

The innovation boasts a unique sustainability profile and aligns with growing market demand for natural, environmentally friendly colorants.

Arctic Blue is produced using a state-of-the-art, carbon-neutral cultivation process at VAXA’s high-tech facility in Iceland. 

Situated next to a geothermal power plant, the facility leverages 100% clean energy, waste heat, and carbon dioxide for spirulina cultivation. 

The closed bioreactor system ensures minimal water loss and uses just 1% of the water and land compared to traditional open-pond methods.

Though processing, packaging, and transportation introduce some emissions, Oterra’s initial analysis indicates that Arctic Blue has up to 40 times lower carbon emissions than its conventional spirulina product. 

This efficiency allows Arctic Blue to support Oterra’s customers in meeting Scope 3 emissions targets, contributing to reduced value-chain carbon footprints.

Addressing challenges in spirulina production

While Arctic Blue retains the vibrant blue shade and high color strength characteristic of spirulina, it addresses common issues associated with open-pond cultivation.

“Arctic Blue has a neutral odor, unlike algae grown in open ponds,” said Lotte Jeppesen, Oterra’s Industry Marketing Manager. 

“It also dissolves faster and is easier to mix, improving handling and usability without altering its regulatory status or labeling requirements.”

This improved process ensures a consistent and high-quality product while maintaining the benefits of spirulina, including its suitability for confectionery, bakery, desserts, and ice cream applications.

Strategic advantages of location

The Icelandic production site positions Arctic Blue closer to major markets in Europe and the United States, where spirulina-based products are in high demand. 

This geographic advantage enhances security of supply and reduces the logistical footprint, bolstering the partnership’s commitment to sustainability.

“Our partnership with VAXA Technologies exemplifies our focus on innovation and sustainability. By teaming up with this high-tech startup, we’re able to produce spirulina-based natural colors with an unbeatable environmental profile,” Luc Ganivet, Oterra’s Chief Innovation Officer, emphasized the importance of this collaboration.

Spirulina’s growing market share

The use of spirulina as a natural colorant in food and beverage products is gaining momentum, with applications outpacing artificial alternatives like Brilliant Blue (FD&C Blue 1). 

According to Innova Market Insights, spirulina’s most common uses are in confectionery (48.4%), bakery (15.9%), and desserts and ice cream (11.6%), indicating its versatility and consumer appeal.