First algae month presented in Ostend

May 2022 was proclaimed by Minister Hilde Crevits as the very first algae month. In the future, algae will also play an increasingly important role in Flanders as a protein source. Recent research by ILVO (Institute for Agricultural, Fisheries and Food Research) has already shown that many algae are nutritious. The researchers mainly focus on the many different flavors that can be created.

“In recent years there has been a lot of movement in the field of research into sustainable, healthy, local proteins and other food components, also in Flanders”, says Hilde Crevits. The minister hopes that these new food products will also appeal to more and more consumers. “The great diversity of algae, and our growing knowledge about it, also represent an opportunity in our region, especially in the field of food innovation.”

Several activities were also proposed in the context of the algae month. For example, on May 4, the first algae event will take place in the food pilot factory of ILVO and Flanders Food. Just like Minister Crevits, the participants will be able to taste the possibilities of algae in food