CIRCALGAE - CIRCular valorisation of industrial ALGAE waste streams into high-value products to foster future sustainable blue biorefineries in Europe

Algal biomass is a vast resource that captures CO₂ and is produced in large quantities worldwide, yet much of it still ends up as industrial waste. CIRCALGAE, an EU‑funded project, is developing a pioneering system to utilise these residual streams through integrated biorefining. Using simple, water‑based technologies, the project aims to create new ingredients from both macro‑ and microalgae for use in food, feed and cosmetics.

CIRCALGAE will demonstrate three industrial‑scale blue biorefineries and develop 12 demonstration products, two of which will be ready for market entry. These products include textured plant‑based foods, protein‑rich feed ingredients and bioactive components for cosmetic applications.

Through collaboration with industry, research institutions and consumers, the project will validate health benefits, ensure regulatory compliance and minimise environmental impact.

The overarching goal is to strengthen the blue bioeconomy by making algae a key resource in the sustainable value chains of the future.