IGene Biotechnology 

Igene Biotechnology, Inc. is dedicated to the discovery, development, production, and commercialization of specialized ingredients for both human and animal nutrition. A key offering from the company is natural astaxanthin, a valuable nutrient utilized as a coloring agent for farmed salmon and trout. Additionally, it supplies a variety of ingredients and finished products to the nutraceutical and animal feed sectors. The company also extends its expertise through research and development services, which include enhancing microbial strains and skillfully developing and scaling up fermentation processes – from initial lab-based shake flasks to pilot plants and ultimately, commercial-sized fermentors. Furthermore, Igene provides analytical chemistry services for accurately identifying and quantifying carotenoids in food, feed, and animal tissues, notably offering verification to distinguish between wild and farm-raised salmonids. Established in 1981 and based in Columbia, Maryland, the company was originally named IGI Biotechnology, Inc. before officially adopting the name IGENE Biotechnology, Inc. in April 1986.