In the vast, blue expanse of our oceans lies a treasure trove of health benefits, hidden within the humble polysaccharides derived from marine life. Joana Carrasqueira, a researcher from the Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre at the Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, Portugal, has been diving deep into this subject, and her findings, published in ‘Marine Drugs’ (which translates to ‘Marine Drugs’), are making waves in the nutraceutical industry.
Imagine this: polysaccharides are like the scaffolding of marine organisms, providing structure and support. But these aren’t your average building materials; they’re packed with bioactive properties that can do everything from fighting inflammation to regulating gut bacteria. Carrasqueira and her team have been exploring these compounds, found in everything from seaweed to marine microorganisms, and the results are promising.
“Marine-derived polysaccharides have sparked immense interest in the nutraceutical industry as they possess a wide range of bioactivities,” Carrasqueira explains. These include antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, gut microbiota regulator, anti-diabetic, and anti-obesity properties. In other words, these compounds could help combat some of the most pressing health issues of our time.
But the benefits don’t stop at health. These polysaccharides also have functional properties like gelling, thickening, and stabilising, which make them valuable in product development. Think of them as natural, sustainable alternatives to artificial additives in foods and supplements. For instance, they can serve as gluten substitutes in bakery goods and stabilisers in icings, sauces, and yoghurts. This opens up a world of opportunities for the maritime sector, from seafood processing to biotechnology.
The commercial potential is vast. The nutraceuticals market is already booming, valued at USD 712.97 billion in 2023 and projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.4% from 2024 to 2030. Marine-derived polysaccharides could be a significant player in this market, offering health-promoting ingredients that meet consumer demands for natural, sustainable products.
However, there are challenges to overcome. Carrasqueira points out that further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of action and potential effects of these polysaccharides on the human body. Additionally, the production process must be carefully considered to ensure sustainability and efficiency.
Despite these hurdles, the future looks bright. As Carrasqueira puts it, “Marine-derived polysaccharides have proven to be a sustainable, multifaceted, and scientifically relevant solution to many of the health problems troubling today’s society.” With interdisciplinary collaboration between researchers, companies, and legislators, these compounds could revolutionise the global nutraceutical market. So, the next time you’re out at sea, remember: the ocean’s not just a source of food, but a potential fountain of youth.
