Algae Farming in Iceland: A Glimpse into the Future of Food Production
- tech360.tv
- Jan 22, 2025
- 2 min read
Iceland's Vaxa Technologies has established a cutting-edge indoor farm near the country's largest geothermal power station. This innovative facility utilises energy and resources from the power plant to cultivate microalgae, a futuristic crop with vast potential.
General manager Kristinn Haflidason describes this venture as a revolutionary approach to food production. While seaweed has been a traditional food source, microalgae is gaining traction for its nutritional richness and sustainability. Vaxa's site, just 35 minutes from Reykjavik, produces microalgae for human consumption and as feed for fish and shrimp farming.
The unique integration of algae cultivation with a geothermal power station at Vaxa's plant results in a slightly negative carbon footprint. This setup, as highlighted by food technology consultant Asger Munch Smidt-Jensen, requires renewable energy, CO2, and nutrients to ensure a climate-friendly operation. The facility's use of LED lights and machine learning to control growth conditions is a testament to its advanced technology.
Vaxa's facility can yield up to 150 metric tonnes of algae annually, rich in essential nutrients like protein, omega-3s, and vitamin B12. This method of microalgae cultivation holds promise in addressing global food insecurity. The market for microalgae is projected to reach US$25.4 billion (£20.5 billion) by 2033, indicating a growing interest in this sustainable food source.
Other companies are also exploring the potential of microalgae, with Danish start-up Algiecel experimenting with portable modules to capture CO2 emissions while producing food and feed. Microalgae is not only a food source but is also finding applications in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and even as a plastic alternative.
Despite the investment and research, challenges remain before microalgae can become a mainstream dietary component. Texture and taste issues need to be addressed, as highlighted by experts like Malene Lihme Olsen from Copenhagen University. However, the nutritional value and sustainability of microalgae make it a promising candidate for future food production.
Vaxa Technologies in Iceland harnesses energy from a geothermal power station to cultivate microalgae.
Microalgae is rich in essential nutrients and holds promise in addressing global food insecurity.
The market for microalgae is projected to reach US$25.4 billion by 2033.
Source: BBC
