October 31, 2024
Li Yingxuan
CNEWS reporter Li Yingxuan/Taipei report
Second-generation small molecule fucoidan (FOII) production process wins dual 2024 Taiwan Innovation Technology Awards
Photo Source: Translab International Ltd.
Taiwan boasts strong scientific research capabilities. National Taiwan Ocean University recently participated in the 2024 Taiwan Innovation and Technology Expo, where it stood out from nearly 600 competing teams, winning nine awards. Among them, its patented technology for “Fucoidan Compositions and Their Uses” received both a bronze medal and a special corporate award, showcasing Taiwan’s innovative achievements in biotechnology.
Small-molecule fucoidan has been shown to be a water-soluble polysaccharide with multiple health benefits. However, traditional food-grade processing cannot completely remove unwanted sediment, resulting in a soluble purity and activity significantly lower than that of research and experimental grades. To address this issue, the research team led by Associate Professor Huang Pei-an of National Taiwan Ocean University employed a patented process, “Fucoidan Compositions and Their Uses,” utilizing “super-pressure filtration” and “porous coating” techniques to significantly reduce sediment, effectively improving soluble purity and physiological activity.
This patented technology has been successfully transferred to Translab International Co., Ltd. and is now used in its “Translab’s Second Generation Small Molecule Fucoidan” product. Since 2021, it has not only passed human clinical trials but has also been recognized with the SNQ National & Quality Symbol and the 2023 National Yushan Award for Best Product category. Recently, Translab International Ltd. also successfully developed the “Tangxinsheng” FFL) triple-protection formula product, addressing Taiwan’s ultra-aging population. The dual awards received at this expo further validate the innovative value of this technology.
This technology successfully overcomes the limitations of the existing 2008 process, improving the soluble purity and bioavailability of small-molecule fucoidan, enabling it to possess multiple health benefits. This upgraded small-molecule fucoidan extract not only boasts high soluble purity and solubility efficiency, but also allows it to fully unleash its full physiological functions. Compared to traditional processes, this patented technology not only enhances purity but also eliminates impurities such as fiber, fat, protein, and monosaccharides, preventing sediment that can hinder physiological function.
Yang Zhonghan, founding secretary-general of the Taiwan Fucoidan Development Society, stated that since the patented technology was transferred to the industry, “Second-Generation Small Molecule Fucoidan” has won numerous biotech awards and has published numerous research findings in international medical journals, demonstrating its potential for translational medical applications. The dual awards received at the 2024 Taiwan Innovation and Technology Expo further demonstrate its international and market value.
The innovative second-generation process technology for small-molecule fucoidan not only highlights Taiwan’s R&D strength in the biotechnology field but also provides innovative options for the global supplemental health food market. Going forward, the team will continue to promote technological advancements and conduct in-depth research to enable more people to benefit from this Taiwanese innovation.
