Origin by Ocean transforms marine biowaste into cosmetic ingredients

Finnish startup Origin by Ocean is committed to changing the face of the chemical industry by harvesting and processing invasive algae in a sustainable way. The company already offers a variety of cosmetic ingredients that reduce dependence on fossil resources while removing biowaste from the ocean, in line with the blue beauty trend and consumer expectations.

By harvesting invasive algae from coastlines, the Finnish startup designs sustainable ingredients for various cosmetic uses as well as food and textiles, including antioxidants, pigments, texturizers and active ingredients.

One of the most interesting innovations in its catalog is OCEANSHIELD™, a derivative of a secondary metabolite - mycosporin-like amino acids, that filters UV rays, thus reducing the need for traditional UV filters. This 100% bio-based SPF booster also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is a proven anti-aging active ingredient.

The company has also developed a stabilizing and moisturizing texturizer, OCEANTHIX™. This sodium alginate-based viscosity and rheology modifier thickens liquid formulas while providing moisturizing cosmetic benefits to the skin.

As for OCEANBOOST™, it is an extract rich in fucoidan, a long-chain sulfated polysaccharide found in various types of brown algae. It has been called the next generation of hyaluronic acid because it not only has moisturizing properties, but also has interesting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

All of these products come from invasive algae, such as Sargassum and certain cyanobacteria, collected off the coast of the Caribbean, Spain or Portugal. The collection is entrusted to local entrepreneurs. The algae is then transported to Origin by Ocean's local processing plant, where it is converted using a unique bioproduction process. With an almost 100% biomass conversion rate, Origin by Ocean's patented method can extract and purify valuable compounds from algae cell walls at high yields.

By removing environmentally harmful invasive algae and converting this biowasteinto valuable biomaterials, Origin by Ocean is actively working to restore marine ecosystems, improve water quality, support biodiversity and develop local economies. The startup offers ingredients that combine functional and environmental value, enabling manufacturers and brands to incorporate sustainability into their formulations and improve their environmental footprint.

The pilot phase of its bioproduction process has been successfully completed, demonstrating the feasibility of industrial-scale production. Origin by Ocean plans to start large-scale production in 2027 and build two bioproduction plants - one in Finland with an annual capacity of 4,000 tons and another in the Caribbean with an annual capacity of 100,000 tons, scheduled for completion in 2029.