A research company that extracts health-promoting ingredients from algae is poised to launch commercial production after opening a new facility.

AlgaeCytes has developed a process that captures the properties of algae to produce ingredients for the health and personal care markets.

It has opened a new site in Discovery Park, the business estate in Sandwich.

The commercial production facility is the first stage of a multi-million pound investment by the owners of the technology park.

It will eventually add 50,000 sq ft of new laboratory space and a 60,000 ft expansion of the site’s office capacity.

AlgaeCytes, which already has laboratories at Discovery Park, intends to use its new space to increase production to meet demand.

Naz Bashir, chief executive of AlgaeCytes, said: “The opening of this new facility marks an exciting stage that we believe will unlock the full potential of algae in the nutritional and health care markets.

“Our aim is not only to produce a more sustainable source of Omega-3 oils but to create ingredients that amaze; ingredients that will be used in beauty products that can improve skin health.

Toby Hunter, chief executive of Discovery Park, said: “This is great news for Discovery Park and we wish AlgaeCytes every success as they enter this exciting stage in their development.

“The company’s expansion is a perfect example of the potential for science on this iconic site.

“We are looking forward to being able to announce further exciting news over the coming months, as we continue our multi-million pound investment programme.”

AlgaeCytes produces Omega-3 oils EPA as well as protein and carbohydrates from algae.

Traditional marine sources of Omega oils are putting pressure on global fish stocks and so becoming seen as unsustainable. Omega 3 oils from non-marine sources are attracting high interest in the personal care and health care markets.