In a significant strategic move, Euglena is set to complete its acquisition of Kobelco Eco-Solutions in early May. This acquisition includes the Euglena gracilis EOD-1 microalgae cultivation and ingredient businesses, as well as the supplement brand Micarea.
The Euglena gracilis EOD-1 strain is recognized for its rich paramylon content, making it a valuable functional ingredient in dietary supplements.
Paramylon is a β-1,3-glucan polysaccharide, which microalgae such as Euglena gracilis produce as an intracellular storage substance.
In Japan, paramylon derived from the Euglena gracilis EOD-1 strain is sanctioned for use in Foods with Function Claims (FFC) to help maintain immune function.
Euglena has also highlighted that this ingredient was the first in Japan to be recognized as a dietary fiber with functional immune benefits.
“Research indicates that it positively influences both innate and adaptive immunity. Its unique properties allow it to target monocytes, which are key cells in the innate immune response, as well as naive T cells in the adaptive immune response,” stated Euglena in a press release regarding the acquisition. “This decision aims to deepen our research base by integrating these immunological findings and developing paramylon as a versatile material that starts with immune health.”
Post-acquisition, Euglena will begin marketing EOD-1 strain powder as a raw material and will include it in the company’s Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) services.
Additionally, Euglena is working on an alternative product to Micarea’s existing paramylon supplement, with plans to launch it within six months.
“Micarea will continue to offer its current product for the foreseeable future, with plans to gradually phase out existing inventory within six months after the completion of the acquisition in early May,” Euglena noted.
Green vs Golden Euglena
Euglena has previously focused on “green euglena” microalgae, while Kobelco Eco-Solutions cultivates the “golden euglena” variety, Euglena gracilis EOD-1.
Beyond the distinct coloration, these microalgae are grown in different settings.
Euglena’s “green euglena” is cultivated outdoors on Ishigaki Island, whereas “golden euglena” is raised through heterotrophic cultivation in controlled indoor environments, without photosynthesis.
The latter is noted for its high paramylon content, exceeding 70%, and ongoing research is evaluating its potential benefits for immunity and fatigue management.
“By merging the research findings, intellectual property, and cultivation technologies of both companies, we aim to deliver the benefits of Euglena more comprehensively—from everyday nutritional needs to high-performance ingredients that address the multifaceted health issues of modern life, including immunity, fatigue, sleep, and stress,” Euglena explained.
Euglena has also utilized paramylon derived from its “green euglena” for FFC purposes, boasting 26 product listings in Plusaid, a database that catalogues information about functional food claims.
Among these products are those aimed at improving sleep quality, alleviating fatigue and stress, and aiding in reducing abdominal fat and waist size for individuals with higher body mass indices.
As part of this acquisition, Euglena plans to obtain various domestic and international patents, research data, and trademarks, including “EOD-1” and “Golden Euglena.”
The company also aims to establish a more stable and competitive supply chain by employing both outdoor and indoor cultivation methods for Euglena gracilis EOD-1.
Scientific Findings on Golden Euglena
Recent findings published in the Journal of Functional Foods in 2023 indicated that supplementation with paramylon from Euglena gracilis EOD-1 over a 12-week period could mitigate the onset of cold-like symptoms in healthy adults.
The clinical trial involved 24 participants who were randomly assigned to receive either 350mg of paramylon derived from Euglena gracilis EOD-1 or a placebo daily.
Researchers measured their overall health, cytokine profiles, and immune responses to assess the effects of paramylon.
Results indicated that those in the paramylon group experienced a greater number of healthy days and showed increased expression of CD28 in naive CD4+/CD8+ T cells, along with maintained CD80 expression in monocytes compared to the placebo group.
“The immunomodulatory influence of PM EOD-1 appears to enhance CD80 and CD38 levels in monocytes, activating them. Moreover, it promotes the activation of naive CD4+/CD8+ T cells by boosting their CD28 and CD38 expressions,” the researchers noted.
