KAUST Researchers Convert Chocolate Factory Waste Into Sustainable C-phycocyanin Using Algae

Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) have made a significant discovery involving an ancient organism. They have utilised this finding to transform chocolate factory waste into C-phycocyanin, a valuable blue pigment. This pigment is expected to reach a global market value exceeding $275 million by 2030.

The study, published in Trends in Biotechnology, reveals how Galdieria yellowstonesis, an ancient red algae strain, can consume sugars from chocolate-processing waste. This process allows it to grow into a protein-rich biomass containing C-phycocyanin. This pigment is widely used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

An unexpected discovery was that high carbon dioxide levels enhance Galdieria growth. Typically, carbon dioxide is a byproduct when microbes consume sugar. KAUST Associate Professor Kyle Lauersen stated: "Our work studying the metabolism of algae is uncovering new ways to turn waste into valuable products sustainably."

Lauersen highlighted that chocolate production generates waste during process line changes. They realised this waste could serve as food for Galdieria. The U.S. FDA recently deemed phycocyanin from Galdieria safe for food applications, making it suitable for beverages and other consumables.

Compared to traditional methods using cyanobacteria, the KAUST approach with Galdieria offers cost savings and higher yields. This is because Galdieria thrives in hot and acidic environments, reducing the presence of other microbes.

Lauersen's team collected waste from a Saudi Arabian chocolate factory for their experiments. They aim to further develop their process by evaluating the scalability and technical capacity of Galdieria production using locally available wastes.

Future Prospects

This research could help more businesses in Saudi Arabia transition towards a circular carbon economy. By assessing local waste resources, they plan to enhance the sustainability of their production processes.

The findings underscore the potential of innovative approaches in converting industrial waste into valuable products while promoting environmental sustainability.

With inputs from SPA