Algae Life Sciences, Inc. (AlgaeLife), a subsidiary of BGG, announced today that its Haematococcus pluvialis production has obtained organic certification by the French agency Ecocert. 

Haematococcus pluvialis, which is well-known for its high content of the strong antioxidant astaxanthin, is the starting material AlgaeLife uses for the production of its AstaZine product line. This landmark achievement comes after a long-term product development project and heavy investment to become the world’s first organically produced astaxanthin.

“AlgaeLife and our parent company BGG pride ourselves on product quality and innovation,” said Joe Huff, CEO of AlgaeLife’s North American operation. “This pinnacle achievement for our flagship product, AstaZine Natural astaxanthin, will be very exciting for cutting edge companies that target the organic market.”

Christian Artaria, global CMO of BGG and CEO of BGG’s European operation, based in Switzerland, echoed Huff’s sentiment. “The organic market is growing quickly in Europe and North America. Having an ingredient like astaxanthin that is clinically validated for a variety of health benefits, that has been organically certified by one of Europe’s leading organic agencies is of great value to our customers and end-users,” Artaria said.

Organic labeling laws vary from country to country, but even in most of the toughest regulatory environments, brands featuring AstaZine will be able to list organic astaxanthin on their labels. “While brands will have to check on their local regulations, we’re confident that in most markets, our customers can now launch our astaxanthin powder and use organic astaxanthin on their labels,” Huff said. “We’re currently looking at emerging delivery methods which will allow brands to use a certified organic logo, such as the USDA’s, on their packaging as well.”

AlgaeLife will be exhibiting March 10 – 13 in booth No. 468 at Natural Products Expo West/Engredea in Anaheim, Calif.