SIG and Nutrition from Water (NXW) have announced a global partnership to develop integrated product concepts that combine algae-based protein beverages with advanced aseptic packaging.
The aim is to help close the nutrition gap in rapidly growing economies, delivering protein-rich nutrition to communities where it is needed most.
The collaboration started at MISTA, the San Francisco-based global food innovation platform that SIG joined in 2023. MISTA unites firms in food, ingredients, and food technology to accelerate the transformation of the global food system.
SIG and NXW are focusing efforts on fast-growing, underserved economies where nutrient deficiencies are most pronounced. By bringing together NXW’s innovations in algae-derived proteins with SIG’s expertise in aseptic carton and pouch packaging, the partnership hopes to provide products with essential water algae proteins and micronutrients in aseptic packaging solutions.
NXW’s bioprocessing technology is said to transform microalgae strains into high-performing ingredients. Its Marine Whey product range includes ‘protein-rich, fibre-dense’ powders that are highly digestible and non-GMO. These ingredients can replace or supplement animal and plant-based proteins.
SIG’s aseptic packaging solutions offer long shelf life without the need for refrigeration or preservatives, while the company’s flexible filling and packaging technology enables manufacturers to adapt to a range of formats and volumes.
Federico Duarte, CEO at NXW, said, “Our partnership with SIG is exciting because it allows us to look at nutrition as a whole system – from how biotechnology enables better nutrition, to how it’s packaged, distributed, and understood by consumers. The alignment could not be stronger: Together, we can unlock access to world-class nutrition for everyone, everywhere.”
Norman Gierow, director global customer marketing at SIG, added, “At SIG, we recognise the global challenges impacting the entire food and beverage industry. Addressing these issues requires strong collaboration with like-minded partners. We’re thrilled to join forces with NXW, whose innovative marine-based protein solution supports more accessible and nutritious food options. Combined with our unique aseptic filling technology and versatile aseptic packaging portfolio, we’re poised to deliver impactful, future-ready products to customers worldwide.”
