In last week’s announcement, the makers of Calanus finmarchicus-derived omega-3 oil, said the trademark rebrand ‘will encompass both company and product range,’ as well as the food’s importance in the long-term.’
“We cannot wait to make the fantastic properties of the zooplankton Calanus finmarchicus known to the people of the world and we have therefore chosen a name that represents the words “zooplankton” and “Calanus”- Zooca,” says CEO Siv-Katrin Ramskjell.
“With Zooca, we create a brand with strong identity. We want to communicate optimism and hope, and we are eager show why these products are important to people and animals around the globe.
“Utilisation of marine resources at the base of the food chain is the way of the future to supply enough nutrients to the world.”
Broodstock Capital investment
The rebrand coincides with Broodstock Capital’s €10m investment in Zooca last month, where the investment firm became the major shareholder in the company.
Under terms of the agreement, Calanus receives €9.7m (NOK100m) in new equity through a private placement. Meanwhile, Broodstock Capital intends to purchase shares from existing shareholders.
“Calanus is a pioneer when it comes to innovation and sustainable use of biomarine resources,and has the potential to see a new standard for the Norwegian biomarine industry, with processing inworld class,” says Pål Kristian Moe, Partner at Broodstock Capital.
“They in turn will be able to lead to increased value creation and employment as well as ripple effects locally and for the industry.
“Broodstock wants to push Calanus all the way to commercial production and has therefore chosen to enter with both capital and expertise,” he adds.
Bioactive omega-3 form
The Tromsø -based firm’s main product is its bioactive form of omega-3 that is said to counteract insulin resistance and other obesity-induced metabolic disorders. It also exhibits a potent anti-inflammatory effect.
Extracted from the copepods of the same name Calanus finmarchicus, the oil contains the omega-3s Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) predominantly in the wax ester form (the oil is slightly viscous). The oil also contains astaxanthin, which gives it its ruby colour.
A recent review identified one possible mechanism of action of the oil, appearing to act as a potent stimulators of the GPR120 receptor, which is associated with reduced inflammation.