SIG and Nutrition from Water (NXW) have announced a global partnership to develop integrated product concepts that combine algae-based protein beverages with advanced aseptic packaging. The initiative is designed to help close the nutrition gap in rapidly growing economies, delivering protein-rich nutrition to communities where it is needed most.

The collaboration started at MISTA, the San Francisco-based global food innovation platform that SIG joined in 2023. MISTA unites leading companies in food, ingredients, and food technology to accelerate the transformation of the global food system. With the world population expected to reach 10 billion by 2050, according to the United Nations, the need for healthy, accessible diets that also protect natural resources is more urgent than ever.

SIG and NXW are focusing their efforts on fast-growing, underserved economies where nutrient deficiencies are most pronounced. By bringing together NXW’s innovations in algae-derived proteins with SIG’s expertise in aseptic carton and pouch packaging, the partnership aims to provide food and beverage products with essential water algae proteins and micronutrients in aseptic packaging solutions. Product positioning can range from healthy basic nutrition for consumers with low incomes, who are most affected by malnutrition, to added-value products enriched with an extra portion of healthy protein.

NXW’s bioprocessing technology transforms microalgae strains into high-performing ingredients. Their Marine Whey product range includes protein-rich, fiber-dense powders that are highly digestible and non-GMO, making them ideal for addressing malnutrition and macronutrient gaps. These ingredients can replace or supplement animal and plant-based proteins, expanding options for food and beverage manufacturers worldwide.

SIG’s advanced aseptic packaging solutions offer long shelf life without the need for refrigeration or preservatives, and their flexible filling and packaging technology enables manufacturers to adapt to a wide range of formats and volumes. The partnership leverages SIG’s global innovation centers, which support rapid product development, joint innovation, and first-hand learning with customers and consumers. Applications are aimed at ranging from yogurt-like drinks to protein-enriched beverages tailored to specific nutritional needs.

Federico Duarte, chief executive officer at NXW, said, "Our partnership with SIG is exciting because it allows us to look at nutrition as a whole system – from how biotechnology enables better nutrition, to how it’s packaged, distributed, and understood by consumers. The alignment could not be stronger: Together, we can unlock access to world-class nutrition for everyone, everywhere."

Norman Gierow, director Global Customer Marketing at SIG, added, “At SIG, we recognize the global challenges impacting the entire food and beverage industry. Addressing these issues requires strong collaboration with like-minded partners. We’re thrilled to join forces with NXW, whose innovative marine-based protein solution supports more accessible and nutritious food options. Combined with our unique aseptic filling technology and versatile aseptic packaging portfolio, we’re poised to deliver impactful, future-ready products to customers worldwide.”