Low-Impact Bioprocessing of Alaria esculenta for Next-Generation Agricultural Biostimulants
Authors
Paige Heavyside (presenting author) [1]
Stina Karlsen [1]
Affiliations
- Kelpinor AS, Norway
Keywords
Alaria esculenta; seaweed biostimulants; low-impact bioprocessing; macroalgae biotechnology; sustainable aquaculture; sustainable food systems; crop resiliency
Abstract
Seaweed-derived biostimulants are increasingly recognized for their potential to enhance crop resilience, nutrient uptake, and stress tolerance in sustainable agricultural systems. However, the bioactivity of seaweed extracts is strongly influenced by both biomass sourcing and processing methods. Conventional extraction approaches often rely on high temperatures or chemical treatments that can degrade sensitive bioactive compounds and alter the natural biochemical complexity of macroalgae. Here we present an industry-focused approach to developing kelp-based biostimulants through low-impact bioprocessing of cultivated Alaria esculenta. By prioritizing gentle processing strategies designed to minimize thermal and chemical degradation, this approach aims to preserve the diverse suite of bioactive molecules naturally present in kelp, including amino acids, polysaccharides, phenolic compounds, micronutrients, and hormone-like substances. Maintaining this biochemical complexity may be critical for the synergistic effects associated with seaweed-derived plant biostimulants. In parallel, Kelpinor is leading the transition toward Norwegian cultivated A. esculenta to improve raw material consistency while reducing harvesting pressure on wild kelp populations. Together, the integration of sustainable kelp cultivation and low-impact processing represents a promising framework for producing next-generation marine biostimulants with improved reproducibility, environmental sustainability, and agricultural relevance.