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Research program for the valorization of marine and plant biomasses with objectification of bioactive ingredients.

The dramatic increase in metabolic disorders associated with obesity in the world population demonstrates our flagrant ineffectiveness in preventing and combating these disorders through the current pharmacopoeia. Alternatively, the beneficial effects on the metabolic health of consuming omega-3 rich marine products as well as fruit and vegetables rich in polyphenols are well documented.
This project aims to develop new extracts or standardized ingredients and objectified from marine biomasses (omega-3 fatty acids) and plant biomasses (polyphenols) available in large quantities in Quebec to meet the demands of the fast-growing sector of nutraceuticals and natural health products. It is part of the continuity of projects at Silicycle, Coopérative Ferland-et-Boileau and Fruit d'Or aimed at developing new products while optimizing extraction and purification processes. The project aims to create a unique added value from marine biomass: omega-3 oils rich in DPA produced from Nordic resources by Total Ocean, but sold at the price of convenience; bark forest residues generated at the Coopérative Ferland-et-Boileau, but largely unused; and by-products of cranberry production at Fruit-d'Or, in search of new markets. This project focuses on the design, development and objectification of next-generation extracts from combinations of marine and plant biomass.
The objectives of this project are:
1.Characterize (physicochemically and microbiologically) biomasses and extracts of marine and plant origin.
2.Develop and optimize the manufacturing processes of ingredients (preparation, extraction, filtration, evaporation drying and packaging) and purification/enrichment of extracts and oils.
3. Identify the most bioactive ingredients and their modes of action by in vitro bioassays.
4. Validate the best combinations of ingredients in animal models and the physiological mechanisms involved.
The relatively complex but routine tests carried out in Dr. Marette's laboratories will make it possible to find two ingredient combinations with a high potential impact on human health, thus a sustained commercial potential for the partners involved.

André Marette

Professeur
Université Laval

CRIBIQ's contribution

$ 485 800

Partners

Industrial participants:

  • SiliCycle
  • Coopérative Forestière Fernand-Et-Boileau
  • Fruit d'Or

QPRI*:

  • Université Laval
*Quebec public research institutes