ALGAMAT

Sustainable and Nutritious ALGAE-Based Burger Development

Introduction

ALGAMAT is an innovative project that develops sustainable food solutions based on algae, with a particular focus on creating nutritious and environmentally friendly plant-based burgers.

By bringing together researchers, businesses, and local stakeholders, the project aims to transform food production and contribute to a healthier and more sustainable food system. Through the use of algae and side-stream resources, ALGAMAT seeks to reduce waste, improve resource efficiency, and unlock the potential of alternative protein sources.

As global food demand continues to rise, conventional production methods place increasing pressure on natural resources and the environment. ALGAMAT explores algae as a promising protein source that requires less land, water, and other inputs than many traditional alternatives. Combining scientific research, technological innovation, and consumer engagement, the project develops attractive and market-ready food products while also addressing the challenges of scaling up production.

By doing so, ALGAMAT aims to make sustainable and nutritious food choices both accessible and appealing to a wider range of consumers across Europe, particularly in coastal and marine regions with strong algae production and food innovation ecosystems.

algae, sustainable food, plant-based burgers, alternative proteins, circular economy, blue bioeconomy, food innovation

2026-2029

TRL: 4-5

Background

The current food system faces major challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and growing global demand for protein.

Traditional livestock production requires large amounts of land, water, and energy, and contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. At the same time, many natural resources are underutilized, including algae, which is rich in nutrients and grows efficiently. In Europe, large amounts of seaweed biomass remain unused or end up as waste.

There is a clear need to develop more sustainable and circular food production systems. However, barriers still exist in processing technologies, consumer acceptance, and market readiness. Food innovation must address not only environmental impact but also taste, affordability, and safety. In addition, regulatory frameworks and supply chains for novel foods like algae are still evolving.

ALGAMAT responds to these challenges by combining scientific research with industry collaboration. It aims to unlock the full potential of algae as a key ingredient in future food systems.

What we do

  • Develop algae-based ingredients for plant-based burger products

  • Design and optimize sustainable and circular production processes

  • Test and improve nutritional value, safety, and taste of products

  • Use biorefinery approaches to valorize side-streams and reduce waste

  • Analyze environmental and economic performance (life-cycle and cost analysis)

  • Study consumer perception and promote acceptance of algae-based foods

  • Develop business models and market strategies for commercialization

  • Engage stakeholders across the entire value chain, from cultivation to consumption

Expected impact on food system transformation

ALGAMAT contributes to the transition towards a more sustainable and resilient food system.
By introducing algae as an alternative protein source, the project helps reduce reliance on resource-intensive livestock production. Algae-based foods require less land and water and can lower overall environmental impact.

The project follows a circular approach by using side-streams and minimizing waste. It supports the development of the blue bioeconomy while protecting marine ecosystems.
Through innovation and collaboration, ALGAMAT strengthens local and regional food systems.

The project also integrates a theory of change approach:
research → product development → consumer acceptance → market uptake → systemic change.

By combining technological innovation with social and market insights, ALGAMAT aims to ensure real-world impact.
Its outcomes will support climate goals, improve food security, and promote healthier diets.

Implementation and plans to reach target groups

ALGAMAT will actively engage a broad range of stakeholders, including food producers, researchers, policymakers, industry representatives, and consumers. Stakeholders will be identified and involved across the entire value chain, from algae cultivation and processing to food production and market uptake. Through workshops, co-creation sessions, and pilot testing activities, the project will foster collaboration and ensure that stakeholder perspectives are integrated from an early stage.

To maximize visibility and impact, ALGAMAT will implement a comprehensive communication and dissemination strategy using social media, project websites, public events, and open-access publications. Consumer engagement activities, such as product tastings and surveys, will play a key role in building awareness, acceptance, and trust in algae-based food products. At the same time, industry partners will contribute to scaling up production processes and exploring commercialization opportunities, while research institutions will provide scientific expertise and drive innovation.

By strengthening collaboration between public and private actors and aligning its activities with European sustainability objectives and regulatory frameworks,

Overall, ALGAMAT aims to ensure broad visibility and real-world application of its results.

Partners of the project

  • Nord University, Norway

    • Vetik

    • Kaunas University of Technology

    • SaltenAlgae AS

    • Norwegian Seaweed Cluster

    • TU Freiberg

    • ALGAEWERK

    • MATIS

    • University of Eastern Finland

    • Norwegian Research Council

    • SIA for Applied Research

    • Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MMM)

    • Estonian Research Council (ETAG)

    • Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF)

    • Icelandic Research Council (RANNIS)

    • Research Council of Lithuania (LMT)

  • Project website

    https://www.nord.no/en/research/research-project/algamatItem

    Social media accounts LinkedIn (ALGAMAT project page)

    https://www.instagram.com/algamat