Iodine deficiency is one of the three most common nutritional deficiencies and is spread all over the world, according with the World Health Organization (WHO). 40% of the world’s population remains at risk for iodine deficiency and only in Germany it has been estimated that Iodine insufficiency to cause a billion dollars in health care costs per year. Of all foods, seaweed is the most famous and reliable source of natural iodine. The main objective of the project is to produce in a cost-effective way new high-quality seaweed iodine products, focusing in solving the iodine deficiency demonstrated in 3 main target groups (children, pregnant and breastfeeding women and elderly). We want to differentiate our product specializing in developing high quality seaweed products based on protein enrichment with natural iodine, rich in essential amino acids. Our seaweeds are autochthonous from our region and have naturally a high iodine and protein content and a high degree of stability.

 

​

Concrete Benefits

The project addresses iodine deficiency and also an environmental challenge within the maritime area as it uses the seaweed production as a natural mean of reducing environmental impact associated with the fish aquaculture. Moreover, this initiative reduces the unemployment in maritime areas trough the creation of new jobs related with the creation and processing of seaweed. The Macaronesia Technological Platform identified our initiative as one important initiative for the development of blue economy in this region.

​

​

Market Potential

The market for iodine products is expected to increase stably until 2020 being Europe the main regional market. We have left the experimental part and we are launching products on the market on three fronts: IODOBEM Food supplement, Iodized enriched products IODO+ and salt replacement products.

​

​

Key Points

• The main objective of the project is to produce in a cost-effective way new high-quality seaweed iodine products.

• The IODOBEM is a natural extract providing not only iodine, but a diverse range of nutrients, proteins, vitamins and minerals beneficial to the human metabolism.

• The project promoted employment and clearly contributed for the growth of the blue economy by making a sustainable use of maritime resources.

​

​