Coastal waters surrounding Newfoundland and Labrador support rich seaweed growth with approximately 300 species inhabiting these pristine sub-arctic waters and yet little work has been carried out on their biological activities. The combination of pristine cold waters and the potential for natural products led us to consider investigating the biological activity potential of Newfoundland and Labrador seaweeds for the purpose of developing a rural industry commercializing seaweed products for the cosmetic, nutraceutical/functional food or pharmaceutical market.
An untapped, potentially game changing resource
Coastal waters surrounding Newfoundland and Labrador support rich seaweed growth with approximately 300 species inhabiting these pristine sub-arctic waters and yet little work has been carried out on their biological activities. The combination of pristine cold waters and the potential for natural products led us to consider investigating the biological activity potential of Newfoundland and Labrador seaweeds for the purpose of developing a rural industry commercializing seaweed products for the cosmetic, nutraceutical/functional food or pharmaceutical market.
Newfoundland and Labrador is home to more than 300 species of seaweed in its pristine sub-arctic waters.
Seaweed has developed over time to adapt and survive the harsh conditions of the Atlantic Ocean. As a result, it has evolved with superior defense systems and important biological activities which can be of considerable value to various industries.
In understanding seaweeds superior properties, Oceans Ltd. is investigating the potential of this untapped resource as a source of novel bioactive compounds. Research is proving that seaweed has vast and varied applications which will benefit the health and well being of society.
In turn, evidence from scientific studies will support the formulation of natural health products, nutraceuticals and cosmeceuticals.
Currently, our team is working to develop and implement product formulations that will be available commercially.
Seaweed Biological Activities
The focus of our research is to provide consumers with health promoting products containing exemplary compounds isolated from local seaweed. In doing so, we have initiated a number of studies which has helped hone in on specific areas interest.
To date, the research team at Oceans Ltd. has eliminated over 60 species of seaweed and identified a select few that exhibit strong antimicrobial, anti-cancer, antioxidant, and anti-aging activity. Oceans Ltd. has delved into these four key areas of research with each discipline having applications in a multitude of domains.