Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) recently discovered that an ancient strain of red algae, Galdieria Yellowstonensis, can convert chocolate factory waste into C‑phycocyanin, a valuable blue pigment with a global market projected to exceed SAR 1 billion (USD 275 million) by 2030.
Published in Trends in Biotechnology journal, the 2025 study reveals that this algae strain can utilize the sugars found in waste from chocolate processing to grow into protein-rich biomass that contains C-phycocyanin.
Color pigment C-phycocyanin is extensively used globally in a variety of applications, including food products, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
The findings signify a transformative approach to recycling industrial waste into useful feedstock for microorganisms, promoting circular economy principles and reducing food waste, a pressing issue in today’s manufacturing landscape.
Kyle Lauersen, an associate professor at KAUST and the study’s lead author, explained the innovative process, noting that waste generated during chocolate production, particularly when process lines fluctuate, can serve as a viable food source for Galdieria.
Additionally, the research unveiled an unexpected advantage: elevated levels of carbon dioxide can enhance the growth of Galdieria, despite carbon dioxide being a typical waste product of microbial sugar consumption. This insight could further optimize production processes, potentially enhancing yield while minimizing costs.
The study’s implications are significant, especially as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has recently deemed phycocyanin from Galdieria safe for food applications.
Mars Incorporated, a key player in the chocolate industry, has partnered with KAUST to support this research and pursue sustainable solutions.
As the project advances, researchers aim to evaluate the scalability and technical feasibility of using locally available waste materials to produce Galdieria, as well as position Saudi businesses on a path toward a more circular carbon economy, a system that reduces, reuses, recycles, and removes carbon emissions to keep carbon circulating sustainably.
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