BDI-BioLife Science is the #1 astaxanthin producer from Austria and sole producer of the red diamond. Using state-of-the-art technologies, they develop highly effective active agents for the life-sciences industry, specialising in high-quality astaxanthin: the red diamond.

The company cultivates Haematococcus Pluvialis at their plant in Hartberg, Austria to produce natural astaxanthin for cosmetics, food supplements and pharmaceuticals. As a result of many years of experience, they guarantee year-round production and reliable delivery due to constant cultivation, as well as strictest hygienic standards and highest product quality.

Cutting-edge cultivation

BDI-BioLife Science develops tailor-made solutions meet the specific requirements of its business partners and clients, assisting established brands, visionaries and ambitious start-ups looking to use natural astaxanthin as a high-class ingredient.

Their specially developed state-of-the-art cultivation process involves transferring algae strains, which are ideally supplied with nutrients and light, to progressively larger containers. In order to fulfil the strictest requirements in terms of hygiene and quality, a fully automated process control system (PCS) operates, monitors and documents all production steps. This ensures the traceability of each individual batch. Furthermore, a barcode-based data capture fulfills all basic requirements for traceability necessary in the cosmetics, dietary supplement and pharmaceutical industries. This guarantees that the production at BDI-BioLife Science fully complies with all EU directives.

Micro algae – mega effect

BDI-BioLife Science markets its astaxanthin under two registered brands – ASTAFIT® and ASTACOS® – to offer full flexibility to fulfill customer requirements.

ASTAFIT®: Astaxanthin as a dietary supplement

With its antioxidant properties, ASTAFIT® acts to efficiently protect human cells and membranes. Positive effects of astaxanthin have been proven, for example, in the prevention of UV damage to the skin, the regeneration of skeletal muscles after training and the treatment of inflammatory diseases, elevated blood sugar levels and high blood pressure.

ASTAFIT® is offered as dried and disintegrated biomass, CO2-extracted oleoresin or water-soluble granules, depending on a customer’s needs. These varied states mean ASTAFIT® can be incorporated into capsules, powders, or even water-soluble granulate for drinks. BDI-BioLife Science offers various frame formulations containing the following unique natural astaxanthin bases:

  • ASTAFIT® OL50 | OL100: increased stability of astaxanthin as a 5% or 10% oleoresin
  • ASTAFIT® CWD25 | CWD50: water-dispersible microbeadlets with up to 5% astaxanthin content
  • ASTAFIT® Lipo20: 2% astaxanthin combined with phosphatidylcholine for enhanced bioavailability
  • ASTAFIT® customised: tailor-made solutions according to our clients’ specifications in terms of astaxanthin content, carrier oil etc.

In late 2022, ASTAFIT® OL50 | OL100 as well as ASTAFIT® CWD25 | CWD50 were designated with the GRAS status by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

ASTACOS®: Cosmos-certified astaxanthin for cosmetics

ASTACOS® OL50 combines the brilliant benefits of the red diamond astaxanthin, in an oleoresin based on certified organic jojoba oil and with an astaxanthin content of 5%. It has especially been developed for use in cosmetic formulations and offers premium quality. Due to its hydrophilic and lipophilic properties, astaxanthin can permeate the entire cell membrane and has a holistic effect. ASTACOS® protects the skin against all environmental influences and keeps it in oxidative balance.

The origins of the red diamond

Beginning as early as 2008, the BDI-BioLife Science began cultivating algae strains, exploring the possibility of developing a new source of raw materials for renewable energies. The results of the project indicated technical feasibility, however it was not economically viable at that time. In 2012, focus was placed on a very special microalgae, Haematococcus pluvialis; and with the development of a seasonally independent cultivation process, the course was set to begin producing algae materials. In 2016, industrial-scale production of the red diamond commenced with the completion of the company’s state-of-the-art astaxanthin production plant.

In order to meet the high demands placed on its own products and to exceed customer expectations, the Austrian company is committed to benchmark technologies, sustainability in production and continuous development for and in cooperation with our clients and partners.

Contact BDI-BioLife Science directly to find out more!