About us

AstaReal AB is a global pioneer and expert in microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis cultivation, production of products with natural astaxanthin, and related R&D and clinical science. AstaReal Ab has distinguished science-oriented roots. It was founded in 1988 as a spin-off from Uppsala University in Sweden – one of the world’s most prestigious universities.

Inspired by astaxanthin’s important role in nature and the animal kingdom, the research group focused on studying astaxanthin as an active substance for human use and exploring the possibilities of scaling up astaxanthin production for dietary supplements manufacturing. In 1995, AstaReal launched the world´s first dietary supplement containing natural astaxanthin.

During the cultivation process, the algae cells grow under controlled conditions and the cultures are harvested after they reach optimal density and astaxanthin concentration. Thereafter, the astaxanthin-rich algal paste is crushed, pasteurized and spray-dried.

Quality is one of the main pillars for AstaReal, and the company is certified for ISO 9001, and FSSC 22000.

Natural astaxanthin is a high-value molecule belonging to the carotenoid family that is synthesized almost exclusively by specific microorganisms (algae, yeast, bacteria) and certain marine organisms. Astaxanthin is a pigment that, gives the unique red-orange coloration to many marine species like salmon, trout, and crustaceans (shrimp, crab and crayfish), and other animals, such as flamingos. This fat-soluble phytonutrient probably has antioxidant and anti- inflammatory properties that can protect cells against oxidative stress and inflammation if the substance is ingested through the diet.

Astaxanthin is a pure antioxidant, which means that the substance does not cause cell damage at high doses, and it neutralizes free radicals more effectively than other antioxidants. Since humans and animals generally cannot produce carotenoids de novo (synthesize in their own body), astaxanthin needs to be obtained through diet. However, astaxanthin is not an essential nutrient, but as many other phytonutrients oral intake may give potential health benefits. The most abundant source of astaxanthin in nature is the freshwater microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis.

AstaReal has more than 35 years of scientific research and product development experience, and over 70 human clinical studies on safety and efficacy of astaxanthin in its portfolio. There are also toxicity studies and absorption studies that demonstrate that astaxanthin is safe and effective to use. Astaxanthin’s functional characteristics and health-promoting potentials have been the subject of extensive research since early 1990s.