Zooca® Calanus Oil: Sustainably harvested and produced, in an eco-friendly manner, yielding a pure, natural and unrefined oil

Harvesting

Zooca® has invested in, developed, and patented an environmentally friendly technology for harvesting Calanus finmarchicus, the primary source for our Calanus oil. All harvesting operations are conducted with total transparency, adhering to the highest environmental standards in a sustainable manner. The ambition is to minimize any negative effects on the marine environment, implemented through a Policy for Sustainable Harvesting, a key pillar in all sea operations.

Harvesting is done on external vessels equipped with Zooca’s harvest technology during the off-season for traditional fisheries, with low capital expenditure, making participation attractive. When harvesting, the Calanus finmarchicus is immediately frozen on the boat to preserve its nutrient profile and quality freshness.

Production

In August 2021, Zooca® formally opened the world first-in-class unique production plant for processing Calanus finmarchicus in Sortland, Northern Norway. The plant represents a pioneering approach to processing and manufacturing of our protein and oil products, characterized by an absence of chemicals. Beyond energy, the only inputs factors involved are fresh water and a minimal addition of enzyme. This chemical-free, additive-free process ensures the gentle extraction of both lipids and proteins (hydrolysate). The production is free from hazardous processing aids, and no further refining, concentration, or processing takes place, preserving the natural and pure qualities of the products.

The biorefinery has advanced control systems that enable the regulation of energy consumption to a minimum necessary for a qualified process. Most of the energy used in the plant is allocated to heating the process. An electric hot water boiler has been installed to ensure environmentally friendly heating, and effective state-of-the-art heat exchangers are employed throughout the entire process, all powered by renewable energy sources.

A Gentle Low-Heat Production Process Without Solvents or Additives

Distinguishing itself from traditional fish and krill oil production methods, the Calanus finmarchicus extraction process is notably eco-friendly and gentle. Calanus finmarchicus is immediately frozen on the boat to preserve its nutrient profile and quality freshness. The frozen raw material is fed into a grinder, with water and enzyme added. This is followed by a gentle low-heat process. There is no use of solvents or additives, and the extraction is waste-free. Through centrifugal force the nutrients and products are separated. In contrast, both fish and krill oil often involve chemical solvents and refining.

Zooca® prioritizes sustainability, purity, and an additive-free process when producing our natural Zooca® Calanus® Oil.

• Calanus feeds on phytoplankton, converting seagrass and algae into protein, fat, and nutrients.
• Upon harvesting Calanus is immediately frozen, stored until ready for use in our unique biorefinery.
• The frozen raw material is fed into a grinder with water added.
• Enzyme added to the holding tank, never heated above 95°C / 203°F.
• Centrifugal force separates the individual nutrients and products, yielding our unique oil, protein, powder product. Only water remains.

Certifications

Throughout certifications and revisions, extensive audits of all operational aspects are conducted by objective third-parties, confirming compliance, sustainability, and adherence to all quality standards. The company also holds the following certifications:

ISO 9001 Certified since 2015

Demonstrates the ability to consistently provide products meeting customer and regulatory requirements, with a commitment to continual improvement.

MarinTrust Certified since 2019

A factory certification standard ensuring responsible manufacturing and raw material sourcing, aligned with the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries. MarinTrust certification allows us to demonstrate our commitment to being a responsible producer, where we recognize the importance of responsible fisheries management and ethical operation of our company.

Friend of the Sea Certified since 2020

A project promoting seafood from sustainable fisheries, showcasing Zooca's commitment to sustainability and traceability.

Halal Certified since 2023

Ensures adherence to ethical dietary and religious standards, allowing Zooca® to cater to diverse preferences and ethical practices.