- In January 2025, Klaria Pharma Holding AB entered into a licensing agreement with CNX Therapeutics for its innovative Sumatriptan Alginate Film, a fast-acting treatment for migraines. This oral trans-mucosal film, bioequivalent to nasal spray formulations, offers a convenient and effective alternative to tablets and injections—especially for patients experiencing migraine-induced nausea. The agreement grants CNX exclusive rights to market the product across Europe, the UK, Norway, and Switzerland, with initial launches planned in Germany, Spain, and Italy in late 2025. This partnership underscores the growing pharmaceutical application of alginate-based drug delivery systems for clean, reliable, and patient-friendly therapies
- In November 2024, Bay Area startups Umaro and Sway were awarded a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy under the Mixed Algae Conversion Research Opportunity (MACRO) program. The funding supports the development of innovative processing techniques to upcycle alginate sidestreams, a byproduct of Umaro’s seaweed protein extraction—into sustainable, seaweed-based bioplastics through Sway’s compostable materials platform. This collaboration aims to create dual-value from a single regenerative resource, addressing both the demand for eco-friendly packaging and plant-based proteins, while advancing the circular bioeconomy and reducing reliance on fossil fuel-derived plastics
- In October 2024, Vaess, a Dutch food engineering company, officially inaugurated a state-of-the-art 5,500 m² alginate gel production facility in Stare Koźle, Poland. This facility, now the world’s largest alginate gel production site—marks a major milestone in Vaess’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global supply chain expansion. The new plant enhances production capacity and supports diverse sectors including meat, fish, bakery, pet food, and plant-based products. Equipped with advanced manufacturing lines, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable packaging solutions, the facility positions Vaess as a global leader in alginate-based food technologies
- In May 2024, IFF (International Flavors & Fragrances) unveiled groundbreaking research at major biomedical conferences, including the 12th World Biomaterials Congress (WBC) and the TERMIS World Congress. The company showcased its NovaMatrix® ultrapure alginate biopolymers, emphasizing their transformative potential in regenerative medicine and 3D cell culture. A highlight was the debut of a self-gelling alginate hydrogel system, which enables minimally invasive therapeutic delivery by forming gels in situ after injection. This innovation supports the delivery of cells, proteins, and drugs without surgical implantation, reinforcing IFF’s commitment to advancing biomedical applications of alginate
- In April 2024, Bonyf NV, a Belgium-based oral care innovator, advanced to Phase 2 in the development of its Alginate-Organic Denture Fixative Cream. Following promising results in Phase 1, the company is now focused on refining and validating the product’s effectiveness and safety. This next-generation fixative combines the natural adhesive properties of alginate with organic ingredients to deliver superior grip, comfort, and oral health benefits for denture wearers. The move underscores Bonyf’s commitment to innovation in clean-label oral care solutions and its mission to redefine standards in the denture care market
