Sustainable Marine Protein: Zooca® Hydrolysate with a Low Carbon Footprint
What is Zooca® Hydrolysate?
Zooca® Hydrolysate is a pure protein extract made from the zooplankton Calanus finmarchicus. Our gentle processing results in products without chemical solvents and artificial preservatives.
Zooca® Hydrolysate has demonstrated a low carbon footprint compared to many other marine proteins through a comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) conducted by NTNU and SINTEF. The analysis, published in The International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment, covers the entire value chain—from harvesting of Calanus finmarchicus in the ocean to distribution in Norway. This holistic perspective ensures that the figures provide a realistic picture of the product's environmental impact.
Key Findings from the Study
The analysis revealed that Zooca® Hydrolysate stands out with an exceptionally low greenhouse gas emission of 0.58 kg CO₂ equivalents per kilogram of product. This makes it a sustainable choice for producers aiming to minimize their environmental footprint.
The study also highlights the potential of Calanus-based products as a key resource in the aquaculture industry’s sustainability efforts. Increased use of innovative and environmentally friendly raw materials like Calanus can help reduce dependence on traditional feed ingredients such as soy while enhancing the environmental profile of the aquaculture industry.
This study from NTNU and SINTEF provides us with valuable documentation of the environmental benefits of our products,” says Snorre Angell, CEO of Calanus AS. “Calanus will be a key resource in meeting the future demand for sustainable raw materials in aquaculture.”
The Norwegian government has emphasized the need for innovation and sustainable growth in the aquaculture industry as part of the broader government-led sustainability initiative. Calanus-based products represent a concrete opportunity to strengthen Norwegian value creation while contributing to both national and international sustainability goals.
Life Cycle Assessment Methodology
The life cycle assessment was conducted by SINTEF Ocean in Trondheim, Norway, using recognized methods including the ReCiPe midpoint and CML. The results were calculated using economic allocation and included all stages, from harvesting and processing to transportation and distribution to customers in Norway.
For more detailed information, you can read the scientific article here.
This documentation shows that Zooca® ingredients are not only nutritious and functional but also contribute to more sustainable food production. Want to learn more about our products? Click here to explore Zooca® Hydrolysate
Calanus finmarchicus - A Sustainable Resource
- Zooplankton (2-4 mm in size) with a one-year life span.
- Annual reproduction of 290 million tonnes in the Norwegian Sea, making it the largest renewable resource in the region.
- Harvesting quota is 254,000 tonnes annually, with a maximum sustainable yield of 3.3 million tonnes.
- Minimal ecological footprint, harvested using patented technology outside the main fishing season, making it a sustainable solution.
- Zooca® Products include Hydrolysate, Powder, SeaFrozen, and Oil, used in both human and animal nutrition for growth, health, and environmental benefits.
Certification - ensuring quality, sustainability, and responsible production
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.
