VAXA Technologies Iceland: Study Unveils Increased Vitamin B12 in Spirulina via Photonic Management

A groundbreaking study by an international team of researchers has revealed a novel method to enhance the production of active vitamin B12 in Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) through advanced photonic management in scalable photobioreactors. This new approach promises to make Spirulina a viable, sustainable alternative to animal-based sources of vitamin B12, offering a solution to a widespread global nutrient deficiency.

Published in the journal Discover Food, the research highlights how specific light conditions in photobioreactors can significantly boost the levels of biologically active vitamin B12 in Spirulina. Remarkably, the vitamin B12 content achieved through this method is comparable to that found in beef, positioning Spirulina as a potential substitute for traditional animal-derived vitamin B12 sources.

Vitamin B12 deficiency is a serious global health issue affecting over a billion people and can lead to significant health problems. The findings of this study suggest that Spirulina could serve as a sustainable alternative to conventional animal sources of vitamin B12, thereby mitigating the environmental impact associated with livestock farming.

Professor Issac Berzin, Chief Technology Officer of VAXA, the company behind this technological advancement, commented on the significance of the research. "These findings mark a substantial advancement in biotechnology and sustainable nutrition. Situated in Iceland, adjacent to a geothermal power plant, VAXA utilizes the plant's resources and Iceland's pristine water to optimize photonic management, producing Spirulina with high levels of active vitamin B12. This provides a sustainable alternative to animal-based sources and addresses a critical nutritional deficiency."

VAXA Technologies is set to expand its successful ÖRLÖ food supplement line by introducing Icelandic Ultra Spirulina products, which will enable consumers to harness the benefits of active B12 from sustainable sources.

The study involved researchers from several prestigious institutions including Reichman University, the University of Cambridge, the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (Vienna), Ruppin Academic Center, the Danish Technological Institute, and MATIS-Food and Biotech Research and Development in Iceland.

VAXA Technologies is a global food and climate tech company that has pioneered a new approach for the sustainable production of microalgae, with a significant impact on CO2 offset. Located strategically in Iceland near one of the world's largest geothermal power plants, VAXA's novel indoor technology platform leverages advanced biotechnology in a scalable food-grade production facility. By separating food production from land, water, and greenhouse gas emissions, VAXA has developed the first natural ingredient capable of replacing meat, potentially saving over 100 million tons of CO2 in the next decade.