Aquactifs Genetically identifying and cultivating seaweed for the "blue cosmetics" industry

The "blue cosmetics" industry is one of today's iconic activities in Brittany. The economic development of active molecules extracted from seaweed accounts for a significant proportion of the 4000 jobs in the Brittany cosmetics industry. The algal biodiversity of the Breton coastline, with 400 varieties identified, represents a key factor in the increasing success of these activities.
In collaboration with a laboratory which has developed sound skills and expertise in the field of genetics, three companies are preparing to go one step further and thus the AQUACTIFS project represents a major advance in how algae are produced and economically developed.
Several species of macroalgae will be selected for their potential as sources of active molecules. The genetic profiling of these algae will establish which are the most promising varieties. These will then be farmed and no longer simply harvested at sea to ensure a regular supply and to preserve natural resources. Algae cultivated in this way will make it possible to produce cosmetic extracts with the ideal profile in terms of effectiveness and safety. For industrial companies sourcing their supplies or manufacturing their products in Brittany, this initiative will ensure traceability and safety relating to the quality of the raw material.