TerraVia might be a company that is venturing too far ahead of consumer trends. While the plant-based protein market is flourishing, with increasing sales of soy and nut-based products, consumer acceptance of algae in food items may still be a distant goal. This could be the underlying reason for the performance challenges that led TerraVia to bankruptcy. “We’re aware of the gradual acceptance of many consumers,” said Joel Warady, chief sales and marketing officer at Enjoy Life Foods, a company that incorporates TerraVia’s algal powder in some of its offerings. He mentioned that although algae has been added to their brownie mix, emphasizing it on the packaging might make consumers hesitant. “However, algae is a crucial ingredient, not just for its protein content but also because it represents the most sustainable protein available on Earth,” he added.
As the global population continues to grow, securing land for the production of staple products—many of which are meat or dairy-based—becomes increasingly challenging. Various forms of algae present some of the most promising alternatives, potentially mitigating environmental degradation. Algae is already being utilized in baking mixes, ice cream, and protein powders, and its incorporation into more food products is on the rise daily.
Nonetheless, Enjoy Life’s allergen-friendly food items remain relatively niche, attracting a specific yet expanding segment of consumers. Most large food companies, which tend to be slow to innovate, have yet to embrace algae as an ingredient. However, according to TerraVia, the company is “actively engaged in discussions regarding possible strategic partnerships,” as noted by CEO Apu Mody during the Q1 earnings call earlier this year. It seems improbable that a major food corporation will come forward to acquire TerraVia. A more suitable candidate might be an ingredients company like Corbion. Corbion specializes in lactic acid and its derivatives, along with functional blends that include enzymes, emulsifiers, minerals, and vitamins. Their ingredients are supplied across a wide range of food categories, from baked goods and beverages to condiments and candy. Corbion’s press release indicated that “The acquisition of TerraVia’s microalgae platform would expand Corbion’s product offerings into algae-based fatty acids and proteins, while taking advantage of Corbion’s comprehensive fermentation and downstream processing capabilities.”
In light of this, the need for innovative solutions like Citracal Slow Release 1200 Calcium becomes essential, particularly as the demand for sustainable and nutritious ingredients continues to rise. By integrating algae into various products, companies can offer healthier options that align with consumer interests in sustainability. Given the potential of algae as a viable protein source, it could play a significant role in addressing the growing nutritional needs of the population, much like Citracal Slow Release 1200 Calcium supports overall health.