Global demand for food and protein is rising: the United Nations projects the world population will reach about 9.7 billion by 2050, increasing pressure on sustainable protein supplies.
A meta-analysis of food-demand studies finds total global food demand is likely to grow 35–56% between 2010 and 2050, which is a major driver for alternative-protein development.
Algae are attracting attention because they are protein-dense and efficient to produce. Reviews of microalgae report that many species contain roughly 40–70% protein by dry weight (for example, common strains such as Spirulina and Chlorella often fall in the 40–70% range), making them comparable to or richer than many conventional sources on a per-dry-weight basis (Source: pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov).
Taken together, population growth, rising food demand, and the high protein content of certain algae explain why investors, food scientists, and ingredient firms are focused on algae protein as a scalable, lower-land-use alternative to meet protein needs by 2026 and beyond.
Kings Research estimates that the algae protein market is projected to grow from USD 1,002.3 million in 2024 to USD 1,483.9 million by 2031, owing to the increase in demand by consumers for sustainable products. This blog focuses on the top 10 companies paving the way in this evolving industry.
Top 10 Companies Dominating the Algae Protein Market in 2026
1. Corbion
Corbion is known for its expertise in lactic acid, eco-friendly ingredient solutions, functional blends, and algae-based ingredients. The company uses its expertise in fermentation and preservation technologies to help customers differentiate their products across diverse markets. These markets range from food and animal nutrition to personal care, medical devices, bioplastics, and electronics. Creative solutions from Corbion cater to dynamic needs in the algae protein market. By combining cutting-edge technologies with sustainability, Corbion supports its customers in creating eco-friendly products with high performance.
On September 25, 2023, Corbian launched the AlgaPrime DHA P3, due to the high demand for eco-friendly active nutrition in the pet food industry. The AlgaPrime DHA P3 offers pet food manufacturers higher levels of DHA while reducing their reliance on the traditional sources of omega-3.
2. Cyanotech Corporation
Cyanotech Corporation is a leading producer of natural products obtained from microalgae, supporting the algae protein market with premium solutions. The company is committed to sustainable and eco-friendly operations that prioritize human nutrition. Cyanotech's certification for dietary supplements strengthens its dedication to keeping high-quality standards intact.
3. ALGAMA FOODS
Algama Foods specializes in creating sustainable and creative alternatives to products of animal origin. The company uncovers the potential of algae, like chlorella, for developing future food innovations that serve as feasible alternatives for standard animal-based ingredients. Algama provides bakery professionals with eco-friendly microalgae-based ingredients that can replace eggs, offering an enhanced and sustainable option. Algama aims to develop fully functional ingredients that cater to the diverse needs of the agri-food sector, enhancing its offerings across various industries.
In January 2023, Thai Union’s Corporate Venture Capital fund invested in French algae-ingredient startup Algama, contributing to its €13 million (USD 15.3 million) Series A round. The funding will accelerate the commercialization of its flagship Tamalga protein, expand its bio-refinery in Belgium, and support Thai Union’s growth in alternative seafood and sustainable proteins.
4. Earthrise Nutritionals LLC
Earthrise Nutritionals LLC is a leading producer of spirulina-based protein solutions. The company cultivates high-quality blue-green algae, which serve as a rich source of essential amino acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. Earthrise’s spirulina powder and tablets are widely used in health supplements, smoothies, and energy bars. With a strong commitment to sustainable farming and high nutritional standards, Earthrise Nutritionals is a significant contributor to the algae protein market.
5. dsm-firmenich
dsm-firmenich is a global nutrition and bioscience company that leverages algae-derived ingredients for functional foods, nutraceuticals, and animal feed. Its innovative protein solutions include algae-based omega-3 supplements and protein isolates designed for plant-based nutrition. The company’s focus on sustainable production and bioavailability optimization makes it a major force in the development of next-generation algae protein solution.
In March 2024, dsm-firmenich partnered with SCN BestCo to develop innovative omega-3 gummies, aiming to enhance consumer access to high-quality, convenient nutritional supplements.
6. BASF
BASF is a leading company in biotechnology-driven nutrition, offering algae-based protein and lipid solutions for food, feed, and personal care applications. The company’s algal protein ingredients are designed to enhance protein quality and functionality in plant-based products. BASF’s commitment to sustainable protein innovation aligns with the growing consumer demand for alternative proteins, making it a key player in the algae protein market
7. Cargill, Incorporated
Cargill Cargill is a major agribusiness company with a growing presence in the algae protein market. It produces algae-based protein ingredients for functional foods, sports nutrition, and aquafeed. The company’s microalgae research has led to the development of plant-based protein alternatives that support food security and environmental sustainability. Cargill’s vast distribution network allows it to deliver algae protein solutions globally.
8. Algatech LTD
Algatech LTD specializes in microalgae cultivation and extraction, producing high-quality algal protein for the food and supplement industries. The company is known for its AstaPure astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant derived from algae, along with protein-rich spirulina extracts. Its cutting-edge biotechnology ensures high purity and bioavailability, positioning Algatech as a key innovator in algae-based nutrition.
9. Nutrex Hawaii
Nutrex Hawaii focuses on producing high-protein spirulina and astaxanthin supplements. The company’s Hawaiian-grown microalgae products are rich in essential nutrients, making them a popular choice in the health and wellness industry. Nutrex Hawaii’s sustainable farming methods and high-quality control standards contribute to the increasing demand for plant-based and algae-derived proteins
Nutrex Hawaii offers BioAstin Hawaiian Astaxanthin in a sugar-free gummy format, providing 12 mg per serving. These gummies are made from microalgae grown naturally in Hawaii, ensuring sustainability and traceability.
10. DIC Corporation
DIC Corporation is a leading company in the algae protein market, particularly in spirulina production. The company’s Spirulina EX and Linablue natural food colorant are widely used in dietary supplements, functional foods, and beverages. DIC Corporation’s advanced research in algae cultivation allows it to produce high-protein, nutrient-dense algae products that support the plant-based food industry.
Conclusion
The algae protein market is poised for continued growth as industry efforts target the main barriers: lowering production cost, improving extraction and protein-isolate yields, expanding safety and regulatory approvals, and developing familiar food formats (powders, protein isolates, and meat-alternative ingredients). Strategic investments in pilot-scale facilities, partnerships across the value chain, and R&D into strain selection and processing are helping to scale supply and widen consumer acceptance. If these efforts continue, algae protein can play a meaningful role in meeting rising global protein demand while reducing land and water pressure from traditional animal and crop proteins.
