Igene has a focused R&D program with the goal of developing new ground breaking ingredients within the feed and nutraceutical field.
Through R&D activities Igene seeks to add value to products and create business opportunities for our customers based on sound science and scientific integrity throughout our value chains.

Research and development in microbial strain improvement continues to be the core competency of Igene.  By use of metabolic engineering analysis and state of the art microbiological and genetic technologies, our team of microbiologists, microbial physiologists and engineers has been able to improve the productivity of the original Phaffia yeast strain in excess of 100-fold without using GMO techniques, therefore satisfying consumer preferences for naturally derived products and gaining acceptance for use in key organic programs around the world.

Our state of the art Pilot Plant facility evaluates new strains and optimizes fermentation conditions for maximum yield of astaxanthin. The Pilot Plant features multiple bioreactors ranging from 10 to 200 liters.

The analysis of carotenoids such as astaxanthin in commercial feeds and in the tissues of fish is an area of active research in our analytical chemistry laboratory. Igene’s team of researchers and scientists has developed the world’s most accurate assay for analyzing astaxanthin concentration levels. Leading feed manufacturers in the aquaculture industry continue to adopt precise analytical procedures developed at Igene to ensure consistent astaxanthin content in their finished products