New seaweed capsules tested for gut health benefits

Dr Jessica Adams

Scientists are set to test the gut health benefits of a seaweed extract as part of efforts to improve the nation’s health.

In partnership with seaweed ingredient technology company BioMara, academics from Aberystwyth University are investigating the potential of a bioactive compound found in the alga’s cell walls.
Sourced from seaweed sustainably harvested in the UK, it could offer a new natural remedy for gut health ailments.       
Seaweed is considered by many to be a ‘superfood’, due to its high fibre, amino acids, vitamins and minerals.

Unhealthy diets are a key cause of health problems around the world, including obesity and malnutrition.

More than half of over-45s in the UK are living with diet-related health conditions, which is putting an enormous strain on NHS resources.
Supported by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), this project will move towards clinical trials to test BioMara’s Boost+ extract.
Scientists at the Well-being and Assessment Research Unit at Aberystwyth University’s Department of Life Sciences, alongside researchers at the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS), will be producing and trialling the best methods to conduct a first dietary trial with this product  

Dr Jessica Adams, a seaweed expert from IBERS at
Aberystwyth University said:

“We are very excited to be using our expertise to progress this project. Seaweed contain different compounds to land plants, some of which have distinct properties which we can tap into such as fucoidan. We will be using our knowledge and skills to produce a new extract of fucoidan at scale within food grade facilities. Seaweed compounds are already used extensively in the food industry but this project also develops products towards the nutraceutical market, potentially benefitting the health and wellbeing of people globally.”

Jay Dignan, CEO at BioMara added:

“At BioMara, we see fucoidan as one of nature’s most potent bioactive compounds. This collaboration with Aberystwyth University aims to further our knowledge of Boost+ - BioMara’s fucoidan-containing bioactive extract. It has shown remarkable potential in preclinical studies, and we’re excited to take it a step further through to human trials focused on gut health.”

“Gut health affects millions globally and is increasingly being linked to overall health. Fucoidan has shown real promise in influencing the gut microbiome and gut linked immune responses. We aim to bring BioMara’s Boost+ to market as a scientifically validated natural solution.”

Innovate UK and BBSRC are funding the project as part of a £2.5 million investment in 13 projects to drive the design and development of innovative food and beverage products.

Dr Andy Cureton, Director of AgriFood Systems at Innovate UK said:

“Access to an affordable, sustainable, and healthy diet is essential for the wellbeing of both people and the planet. We drive business growth by inspiring and unlocking innovations that make life better, while ensuring these innovations are accessible to everyone.

“Collaboration between academia and industry is crucial for advancing nutrition research and turning discoveries into healthier, more sustainable food products. Together, we can drive innovation, improve public health, and address challenges like obesity.”

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