(Sponsored Content)
At Gaia Tech, our mission is to transform agrifood byproducts into high-value ingredients. In collaboration with cosmetic brands, manufacturers, and distributors, we address the growing demand for sustainable and effective raw materials in the cosmetic industry.
From Research to Market: Gaia Tech’s Approach to Industry Challenges
Initially, we developed a methodology to transform olive oil production sidestreams into high quality ingredients:
- Phenoliva Active: Derived from olive pomace, this antioxidant extract is rich in hydroxytyrosol, a bioactive compound known for its anti-aging or soothing properties. Comprehensive testing has been conducted on its composition, toxicology, and stability, including final formulation examples. Clinical studies are currently ongoing and data is available upon request.
- Phenoliva CleanChar: An activated olive biochar initially developed as a detoxifying agent for face masks, the powder has since gained interest as a pigment. Compositional and toxicology data is available, as well as formulation examples like beauty mask and mascara.
One of the significant challenges in promoting upcycled ingredients is ensuring they match the performance of conventional materials. For Phenoliva Active, overcoming the hurdles of color and odor standards was crucial. We are tackling these challenges using advanced filtration and encapsulation technologies to optimize these organoleptic properties. In the process of refining and customizing ingredients, various industry partners have underscored our ability to meet high-performance benchmarks, and praised Gaia Tech’s antioxidant technology as “the best they have tested so far”.
Upcycling Innovation: A Proven Process Tailored to Cosmetics
Building on our proven process to develop upcycled ingredients – from sourcing raw materials and conducting compositional analysis, to pilot production trials and forecasting production capacity – we expand this approach to other valuables sources of natural ingredients like apple pomace or grape marc. We offer two types of collaborations to partners:
- Upcycled Ingredients: The olive-based ingredients are available in small quantities.
- Development Services: Ready to partner up to bring innovative ingredients to the market.
We already started looking into a number of local and international sidestreams for new ingredients. Let us know what function you are looking for to develop innovations.
Looking Ahead: A Suitable Partner For Upcycled Ingredients
Gaia Tech provides expertise in raw material sourcing, chemical extraction and analysis, prototype production and formulation, engineering design and upscale preparation. With fully equipped laboratories and state-of-the-art pilot production facilities in Bern and Monaco, we are uniquely positioned to collaborate with cosmetic brands, manufacturers, and distributors seeking to expand their upcycled ingredient and product portfolios.
Are you curious about the ingredients we are working on and their transformative effects on final products? Visit us at In-Cosmetics booth 12C07, explore our offerings at www.gaiatech.ch, or reach out directly at hello@gaiatech.ch.
About the Authors:
Teresa González de Chávez Capilla Phd
Teresa González de Chávez Capilla earned a PhD in Environmental and Bioanalytical Chemistry. As a Senior Scientist with 10+ years of experience, she is specializing in chemical analysis and extraction. She is also experienced in formulating personal care products.
Samuel Bühlmann
Samuel Bühlmann holds a Master’s degree in Business Information Systems and has a track record of working with startups across various sectors. In 2023, he joined Gaia Tech as a co-founder, where he currently leads the communication and business development initiatives.