Hawaiian biotech startup Kuehnle AgroSystems has secured a multi-million-dollar Series B funding round to expand its fermentation-based production of natural astaxanthin, a valuable antioxidant used in nutrition and aquaculture. The Honolulu-based company is known for its patented dark fermentation process, which grows algae in closed tanks without light and aims to make production faster, cheaper, and more sustainable.
The fresh funding marks an important step for the company as it moves toward commercial scale. KAS said its process can cut production costs by as much as 90% and reduce production time from weeks to just a few days, while also lowering water, land, and energy use. This makes the technology attractive for industries looking for sustainable ingredients with consistent quality.
The company’s latest raise will support expanded manufacturing, product validation, and regulatory approvals in key markets. It will also help KAS strengthen partnerships, including its work with Corbion on algae-derived ingredients for salmon feed and human nutrition products. As demand grows for natural and eco-friendly ingredients, KAS is positioning itself as a promising player in the global algae biotechnology market.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
1. What does Kuehnle AgroSystems make?
Kuehnle AgroSystems makes natural astaxanthin from algae using dark fermentation. The ingredient is used in supplements, food, pet food, and aquaculture feed.
2. Why is dark fermentation important?
Dark fermentation helps cut cost, time, water, land, and energy use. KAS says it can reduce production cost by 90% and speed output from weeks to days.
3. How will the new funding be used?
The funding will support commercial scale-up, manufacturing, R&D, regulatory approvals, and partnerships for human nutrition and aquaculture markets.
(Image Source- Kuehnle AgroSystems)