Australian biotechnology leader, Marinova Pty Ltd, is recognised as the global leader in fucoidan science. Ahead of SupplySide Global, the company’s Business Development Manager, Mr Rod Shelley, shares his top five most frequently asked questions. The answers provide exclusive insights for savvy formulators looking for their next hero ingredient.
Marinova’s Business Development Manager, Mr Rod Shelley
1. Fucoidans. What are they and what can I use them for?
Fucoidans are unique polysaccharides found naturally in brown seaweeds. They are highly bioactive compounds that play a pivotal role in protecting the seaweed from water-borne pathogens and other environmental challenges. Extensive scientific research has shown that fucoidans impart significant beneficial effects in a wide range of human health settings.
High purity, certified organic fucoidans are premium marine ingredients utilised in nutraceuticals, medical devices, skincare formulations and animal health products.
2. Is there much supporting science?
More than 4,000 scientific papers now attest to the wide-ranging bioactive properties of fucoidans. While historically, scientific research has focused on the anti-tumorigenic and anti-inflammatory properties of fucoidans, in the nutraceutical market they are widely utilised for their immune support, gut and digestive health, and healthy ageing benefits.
Fucoidans derived from the seaweeds Undaria pinnatifida and Fucus vesiculosus are among those that have been extensively researched and clinically tested. Marinova’s global R&D program is actively exploring the therapeutic properties of fucoidans extracted from these two species. To provide an example, Marinova has recently published new gut health research, adding to the growing body of evidence supporting the ability of fucoidans to modulate and improve host microbiome. Key findings of this study included enriched microbial diversity, increased species richness, and an increase in the beneficial short-chain fatty acid butyrate.
Marinova recently announced it is undertaking a clinical trial in field of prostate health. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or prostate enlargement, is a significant health issue for men across the globe. The condition becomes increasingly prevalent with age, and while it is typically non-life threatening, it can cause bothersome symptoms including difficulty passing urine and an increase in the frequency of urination. Driven by the exciting findings from an initial 2024 study, we expect the results of this current BPH clinical trial to be of enormous interest to brands and formulators having an active interest in the men’s health category. We look forward to sharing the results as soon as they are available.
Global research into fucoidan continues to accelerate
3. Are all fucoidans equal in quality?
Like many ingredients, the quality and bioactivity of fucoidan extracts can vary considerably. Other manufacturers of fucoidan have traditionally utilised harsh solvents, such as ethanol, to precipitate a crude fucoidan polymer from the source seaweed. Fucoidans manufactured in this way may suffer from various shortfalls including inconsistent quality, compromised chemical integrity and diminished bioactivity.
In comparison, Marinova’s exclusive ‘green chemistry’ extraction technology overcomes these problems. The mild, aqueous process avoids harsh solvents, producing high purity fucoidan extracts that remain unadulterated in chemical structure and free from solvent residues. Not only do they retain their natural bioactivity, they comply with the most rigorous quality standards and regulatory requirements
Marinova’s portfolio of branded ingredients, Maritech® organic fucoidans, are supported by FDA-notified GRAS, USDA NOP, EU Novel Foods and EU organic certification. They are also Kosher, Halal and COSMOS certified and manufactured in Australia in HACCP/GMP and ISO9001 accredited facilities.
Proprietary ‘green chemistry’ extraction technology
4. Are fucoidans easy to formulate with?
High purity, certified organic fucoidans offer versatility, efficacy and stability in a wide range of applications and formats. They are ideal for product innovators seeking novel ingredients with a clear point of differentiation. Fucoidan is typically supplied as a dry powder. It can be utilised as a stand-alone bioactive or easily incorporated with other ingredients. High purity fucoidan is ideal for inclusion in capsules, pressed tablets, medical devices, bulk supplement powders, functional foods and beverages, gels, creams and serums.
5. Do fucoidans offer any sustainability credentials?
Award-winning sustainability initiatives span the entire length of Marinova’s supply chain – from the hand-harvesting of seaweeds from pristine ocean waters to the development of green chemistry extraction technology. These initiatives extend to the productive reuse of by-product and the utilisation of renewable energy; the sustainability credentials supporting Maritech® organic fucoidans is extensive. For those attending SupplySide Global, we would be very pleased to elaborate on our sustainability initiatives – including our genuine alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. These unique marine ingredients really do tick all the boxes.
Maritech® organic fucoidan
Marinova Pty Ltd will be exhibiting at SupplySide Global in Las Vegas from October 29-30 at booth #2838. For further details, and to schedule an appointment, visit www.maritechfucoidan.com.au