Microalgae as Multiproduct Cell Factories

Abstract

Microalgae are a highly diverse group of microorganisms that are currently produced at industrial scale at comparably high specific costs for various applications (e.g., food supplements and cosmetics). Although a multitude of high-value, market-relevant products, such as fucoxanthin and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), are present in the biomass, currently single-value chain products are produced and marketed, limiting profitability of microalgal biotechnology, as well as potential application. The chapter provides an overview on microalgae-based lead compounds and their bioactivities providing the basis for the multiproduct cell factory concept. Furthermore, a general overview of current downstream processing (DSP) methods is given that are currently used for microalgal biorefineries at industrial scale. The latest advancements in the research and development of multi-products are showcased, highlighting its role in facilitating the microalgal bioeconomy.