Objective
Scope
Summary
Leading Manufacturing Companies in the Squalene Industry
The competitive positioning of companies in the squalene industry is shaped by leading players like Amyris, Sophim, and Icelandirect, each employing distinct strategies to strengthen their market presence. A leading company in the industry Amyris specializes in biotechnology, using bio-fermentation to produce sustainable squalene from sugarcane. Its unique, environmentally friendly strategy has distinguished it in the market and attracted customers who care about the environment. Another major player, Sophim, places a strong emphasis on natural sourcing, specifically squalene derived from olives, and markets itself as a pioneer in the upcycling of olive oil industry byproducts. Its circular economy model, which appeals to the sustainability and beauty markets, is its strong suit. On the other hand, Icelandirect, a market follower, sets itself apart by using its established reputation in the omega-3 and supplement industries to supply large quantities of squalene derived from olive oil and a variety of sea-based oils. Icelandirect's strategy centers on product offerings that are versatile, meeting the needs of the nutrition and beauty industries. With a focus on squalene derived from marine sources, emerging players such as BioMarine are implementing niche strategies. But as the industry moves toward plant-based and more sustainable substitutes, they are under more and more pressure. With market leaders setting trends and followers quickly adapting to stay competitive, the competitive strategies show a shift toward sustainability and product diversification. Amyris Amyris Enterprises, Inc., a pioneer in biotechnology, has transformed the squalene industry with its ground-breaking Lab-to-Market technology platform. Amyris provides a sustainable substitute for shark-derived squalene, which has been utilized in pharmaceutical vaccine adjuvants and cosmetics, by inventing biofermentation-based squalene. The company's approach centers on using sugarcane yeast fermentation to produce squalene, which outperforms traditional sources and ensures higher purity and cost stability. Additionally, Amyris is at the forefront of sustainable beauty thanks to its long-standing partnership with Givaudan for cosmetic ingredients like Neossance Squalene and Hemisqualane. With this strategic partnership, Amyris continue to concentrate on product innovation and environmentally friendly production while taking advantage of Givaudan's broad commercial reach. Amyris's dedication to sustainability, innovation, and alliances with top industry players has allowed it to dominate the squalene industry. Amyris has taken a sizable share of the bio-based squalene industry by displacing conventional shark-derived squalene, safeguarding marine ecosystems and guaranteeing a trustworthy, moral source of this essential component. They meet the growing demand for sustainable ingredients in both pharmaceuticals and cosmetics while maintaining long-term market leadership through their focus on clean chemistry and scalable, effective production. Sophim Sophim, a leader in the squalane industry, has maintained its competitive edge through its commitment to sustainable and innovative manufacturing processes. Specializing in olive-derived squalane, the company uses eco-friendly techniques like upcycling byproducts from the olive oil industry and employing processes such as distillation, esterification, and hydrogenation to ensure the highest quality cosmetic ingredients. Sophim’s flagship product, Phytosqualan, sets it apart with its plant-based, circular economy model, catering to the growing demand for green cosmetics. Sophim’s pricing strategy leverages sustainability and quality, ensuring competitive costs while maintaining premium-grade offerings. Its strategic expansion into markets like Japan with Phytosqualan QD Grade, which meets "Quasi Drug" standards, further cements its global presence. By focusing on flexibility, innovation, and stringent raw material selection, Sophim continues to meet the evolving needs of the cosmetic industry, providing both traceable and certified organic products. Icelandirect Inc. Icelandirect Inc. stands out in the squalene industry by prioritizing sustainability and leveraging eco-friendly, olive-based squalene as a key differentiator. While many competitors still rely on marine-derived squalene, Icelandirect has shifted towards using olives, a more sustainable and consumer-friendly option, aligning with the growing demand for green supplements. This strategic pivot not only sets them apart but also enhances their appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. Icelandirect's comprehensive product offerings, which include high-quality squalene oil in bulk, as well as Omega-3, Cod Liver Oil, and other sea-based products, cater to both people and pets. Their products are manufactured under stringent GMP standards and offered in various forms, such as softgels and powders. As a member of GOED and Friends of the Sea, Icelandirect ensures that their products meet rigorous quality and sustainability standards, giving them a competitive edge. This strategic focus on sustainability, premium product quality, and adherence to responsible fishing methods positions Icelandirect as a leader in the squalene industry, particularly as the market shifts towards greener alternatives. Recent Development:• On May 19, 2023, Amyris, Inc. announced an exclusive license agreement with Croda International Plc for the supply of sustainable, sugarcane-derived squalene, developed through Amyris' Lab-to-Market platform. Traditionally sourced from shark liver, Amyris’ bio fermentation-based squalene offers a purer, cost-effective alternative. Croda is expected to license and distribute squalene for use in vaccines and drug delivery systems, utilizing its expertise in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Amyris will receive an upfront USD 4 million payment, with a future milestone payment and profit-sharing from sales of squalene-based products. This partnership accelerates the commercialization of sustainable squalene in the pharmaceutical industry.
• On December 6, 2022, Evonik launched PhytoSquene, a plant-based squalene derived from amaranth oil, designed to enhance vaccine efficacy and meet the demand for non-animal-derived squalene in pharmaceuticals. This innovative product provides an alternative to shark liver oil, helping preserve biodiversity by reducing reliance on animal sources. PhytoSquene ensures consistent quality and purity, complies with European Pharmacopoeia specifications, and addresses the needs of patients with cultural or religious restrictions against animal-derived products. This launch aligns with Evonik's goal to transform over 70% of its portfolio to next-generation solutions by 2032. Additionally, Evonik has previously introduced PhytoChol, a plant-derived cholesterol, furthering its commitment to sustainable solutions in the pharmaceutical industry.