BLUU, a European biotechnology company specializing in cultivated fish cell production, is expanding its reach beyond the food sector. The company, which is known for its salmonid cell technology, is now entering the beauty and health markets, offering ethically sourced, traceable marine ingredients.
“Our cultivated fish products are no different from anything derived from wild-caught or farmed salmon”
BLUU has developed a proprietary technology platform called Bluu Zone that enables the production of bio-identical marine ingredients from cultured salmonid cells. This process eliminates the need for animal slaughter and avoids the environmental impact typically associated with traditional fishing and farming. The resulting products are free from artificial additives, antibiotics, and microplastics, providing what the company describes as a purer and more sustainable alternative to wild-caught or farmed salmon.
Dr. Sebastian Rakers, CEO and co-founder of BLUU, remarked, “At a cellular level, our cultivated fish products are no different from anything derived from wild-caught or farmed salmon. However, unlike conventional products, they are perfectly traceable, sustainable, and free from contaminants.”
Targeting three key markets
This new direction builds on the company’s existing seafood offerings, introducing three distinct branches: BLUU Skincare, BLUU Health, and BLUU Seafood. Each brand will target a different market while maintaining the same commitment to sustainable, cruelty-free production practices.
BLUU Skincare will provide bioactive, pharmaceutical-grade ingredients for the skincare industry. Salmonid-based bioactives, known for their anti-aging and skin regeneration properties, have long been sought after in beauty care, particularly in markets like K-beauty. However, ethical concerns and sourcing challenges have limited their broader adoption. With its cell-cultivated approach, BLUU offers a scalable, cruelty-free source of these ingredients.
Dr. Richard Giles, CEO of Defined by Insight Consulting, explained, “Global beauty brands are shifting from botanical extracts to biotechnology-driven actives, seeking scientifically backed ingredients that deliver visible results. BLUU’s technology allows us to access bioactives that have been valued for their skin-regenerating benefits, without the ethical and environmental concerns associated with traditional sourcing.”
Overcoming regulatory roadblocks
Alongside skincare, BLUU Health will introduce a new category of marine-based products with potential applications in wellness and nutrition. These products will leverage the unique properties of salmonid cells, offering a versatile solution with multiple benefits.
While BLUU’s move into these sectors is driven by market demand for sustainable, high-performing ingredients, the company is also working to overcome regulatory hurdles. Although its cultivated seafood products are still awaiting approval in key markets like the US and EU, BLUU is optimistic about the eventual rollout. “It will only be a matter of time before we see approval for our cultivated fish products,” Dr. Rakers added.
