AlgaEnergy secures EU approval for four biostimulants

Spanish biotech company AlgaEnergy has received CE marking for four biostimulants, including what it says is the first product certified in the European Union to improve the quality of extra virgin olive oil. The regulatory approval allows the company to distribute the inputs across EU member states under the bloc’s 2019 Fertilising Products Regulation.

The newly approved formulations are based on microalgae and have been tested in statistically validated field trials. A Notified Body mandated by the European Commission audited the results, AlgaEnergy said.

Certified for olive use

One of the approved products was developed specifically for use in olive groves. Independent studies cited by the company found that the product contributed to higher levels of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in olive oil, along with a reduction in saturated fats and the peroxide index—a measure of oil oxidation.

The biostimulant also appeared to improve oil yield, oxidative stability and shelf life. These results are attributed to its effect on the olives’ lipid profile, the company said.

Olive oil is a key agricultural export for Mediterranean countries. Spain, Italy and Greece account for the majority of Europe’s olive production, with Spain alone cultivating more than 2.7 million hectares of olive trees.

Focus on crop-specific inputs

The CE marking of the four biostimulants supports AlgaEnergy’s strategy to develop crop-specific agricultural inputs with scientifically validated performance. The company said it will continue to expand its portfolio with products designed to meet regionally important agronomic needs.

Biostimulants are an emerging category of agricultural inputs aimed at improving crop resilience, quality and yield through non-nutritional means. The EU’s regulatory framework for biostimulants, introduced in 2019, set standardized criteria for efficacy and safety, opening the door for broader commercialization across member states.