Bluu Biosciences, pioneer in the development and production of cultivated fish in Europe, is rebranding into Bluu Seafood with the new name reflecting the change from a predominantly research-oriented biotech to a more product-focused foodtech. Bluu Seafood will be introducing its first product based on cultivated fish and plant components in the second half of this year. Full market launch will depend on the regulatory requirements in the respective target markets and is most likely going to take place initially in Asia, the UK, or the US, before EU-approval will be granted.
Research and development remain important to produce cultivated fish products on a relevant scale. However, with process optimization already achieved, Bluu Seafood is now focusing on the development of market-ready cultured fish products that no longer differ in taste, texture and cooking behaviour from comparable products based on wild-caught or aqua cultured fish.
Dr Sebastian Rakers, founder and managing director of Bluu Seafood explained: “As a company, we are continuously growing and evolving. Changing the brand name to Bluu Seafood reflects this evolution. We are growing organically, mastering the processes, and are now focusing increasingly on product development and go-tomarket.”
Heavy fishing and marine pollution are threatening fish stocks worldwide. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates that more than 90 percent of the world’s fish stocks are either overfished (33.1%) or fished to maximum sustainable levels (59.9%). Therefore, sustainable alternatives are needed to ensure a long-term supply of animal protein for the world’s population. Bluu Seafood is working to create one of those alternatives with cultured fish that is delicious, healthy, and sustainable.
“We believe that cultivated fish will be an important alternative source of protein to feed the world’s growing population in the future, and Bluu Seafood is well positioned to tackle the upcoming scaling process, “emphasized Dr Christian Dammann, Chief Operating Officer of the company. „Fish and fish products are traded and consumed internationally, so from our perspective it makes sense to start with a brand name that is widely understood and immediately tells consumers what it is all about.”