SP4b showcases food innovation with algae at the Lisbon Food Affair

SP4b, as part of the Vertical Algas project, attended the Lisbon Food Affair, one of the country’s largest events dedicated to innovation in the food sector. During the event, Greencolab led a workshop on seaweed burgers, offering participants a hands-on and innovative experience that highlighted the potential of these sustainable ingredients.

Throughout the event, in front of thousands of visitors, around 9000, SP4b demonstrated how algae can play a central role in transforming food systems by offering alternatives that are more sustainable, nutritious, and aligned with today’s challenges. This participation reinforces the project’s commitment to bringing scientific innovation closer to the public and driving solutions that contribute to the future of food.

 

Vertical Algae Project participates in Microbiotec’25 congress

The co-promoters of the Vertical Algae Project attended Microbiotec’25, a leading congress in microbiology and biotechnology, held from 4 to 6 December 2025 in São Miguel, the Azores.

Participation in this scientific meeting was an opportunity to present the Vertical Algae Project and frame its work in the context of the current challenges of biotechnology and sustainability, highlighting the role of algae as a strategic resource with high innovative potential.

As part of a programme that brought together experts, researchers and representatives from different sectors, Microbiotec’25 provided a privileged environment for reflection and knowledge sharing, reinforcing the relevance of the Vertical Algae Project in the field of biology-based research and innovation.

Attending this congress helps to consolidate the project’s position as an initiative aligned with the enhancement of natural resources and the development of sustainable solutions for the future.

ALGAplus at Seagriculture 2025

ALGAplus was present at the 14th Seagriculture Conference EU 2025, an event held from June 17 to 19 in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. The event brought together the leading players in the seaweed sector.
Inês Oliveira presented the poster ‘New Horizons: advancing Land-based cultivation of Codium tomentosum’, which shows ALGAplus’s ongoing work and commitment to the sustainability of Codium tomentosum farming.

Innovation and Nutrition: Sumol Compal Launches Smoothie with Spirulina from Necton

Sumol Compal, as part of the ‘Sea to Fork’ project, has just launched a functional smoothie with Spirulina for those looking for a boost of energy and nutrients.
Developed in the subproject (SP4a), this smoothie features Spirulina supplied by Necton, the leader of the Algae Vertical. This product not only highlights Sumol Compal’s commitment to innovative ingredients but also emphasises its dedication to promoting healthy alternatives with added nutritional benefits, in line with the objectives of Algae Vertical.

GreenCoLab and Algae Vertical highlight advances in microalgae at RRB 2025, Finland

Alexandre Lima represented GreenCoLab and Algae Vertical at the 21st edition of the International Conference on Renewable Resources & Biorefineries RRB 2025, which took place in Turku, Finland, from 2 to 4 June, bringing together researchers, companies, and policymakers around the sustainable future of the bioeconomy.

During the event, Alexandre Lima presented the poster entitled ‘Life Cycle Assessment of Carotenoid Extraction from Microalgae Biomass: A Biorefinery Approach’, which reflects the progress of the work carried out under Subproject 1 (SP1). This study reinforces the potential of microalgae as a renewable resource, promoting the sustainable extraction of carotenoids from a biorefinery perspective and based on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) principles.

Vertical Algae Project earns Portuguese researcher international distinction

Researcher Madalena Mendes from GreenCoLab/ALGAplus presented her innovative study on Porphyra spp., commonly known as Nori, at the prestigious International Seaweed Symposium 2025, held in Victoria, Canada, by the International Seaweed Association (ISA).

The presentation, ‘Screening of Farmed Atlantic Nori Strains: Unlocking Their Full Potential for High-Value Applications,’ highlighted innovative results on growth rates, yield, lipid content, and fatty acid profiles of genetically diverse strains of Porphyra produced by ALGAplus.

This work was developed as part of the Algae Vertical project (SP1b), integrated into the Blue Bioeconomy Pact, and is dedicated to exploring the potential of Atlantic macroalgae for high-value applications. This presentation earned Madalena Mendes the prestigious Max Doty Award.

Portuguese microalgae helps fight inflammation and diabetes

A microalgae cultivated in Portugal, Dunaliella salina, is proving promising in the field of health. Researchers at the University of Aveiro, in collaboration with CIIMAR, CBQF – Portuguese Catholic University, GreenCoLab and the company Necton, have discovered that this microalgae contains compounds with anti-inflammatory and blood sugar regulating properties.

The study, carried out as part of the Algae Vertical project, which is part of the Blue Bioeconomy Pact, opens the door to the development of new food supplements and functional foods. Dunaliella salina is already approved in Europe for use in supplements, which facilitates its application in the nutrition and health market.

GreenSavers

4th Edition of the Aquaculture Conference

From 20 to 21 March, the fourth edition of the Aquaculture Conference brought together experts in Olhão to discuss the future of aquaculture production in Portugal. The event, organised by APEZ – Portuguese Association of Zootechnical Engineering, in partnership with S2AQUAcoLAB, took place at the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) (Olhão), bringing together almost a hundred people. Copromotor S2AQUAcoLAB was present and actively participated with innovative presentations dedicated to the health and well-being of marine organisms, addressing topics such as sustainability and discussing ways to optimise and improve production.

Exploring Algae: Science, Art and Sustainability at School

Last week, primary school students at the EB1 Ria Formosa School in Faro took part in an educational activity about algae, exploring its importance and the use of its natural pigments in paintings. GreenCoLab with its scientists and outreach team provided a different kind of morning for the school’s 3rd graders.

The activity began with an explanation of algae, their characteristics and applications. The children observed different species and samples of macroalgae, both fresh and dried, and different microalgae, broadening their knowledge.

They then used natural pigments from the algae to create paints in different shades. With these pigments, they produced paintings inspired by the theme, demonstrating their creativity.

As well as learning science, the experience encouraged environmental awareness and artistic expression. The school intends to continue promoting activities that integrate science and art interactively and engagingly.
Algae Vertical’s SP7 continues its dissemination work, seeking to reach different audiences effectively.