Calanus rebrands as Zooca

In last week’s announcement, the makers of Calanus finmarchicus​-derived omega-3 oil, said the trademark rebrand ‘will encompass both company and product range,’ as well as the food’s importance in the long-term.’ ​

“We cannot wait to make the fantastic properties of the zooplankton Calanus finmarchicus known to the people of the world and we have therefore chosen a name that represents the words “zooplankton” and “Calanus”- Zooca,”​ says CEO Siv-Katrin Ramskjell.

“With Zooca, we create a brand with strong identity. We want to communicate optimism and hope, and we are eager show why these products are important to people and animals around the globe. ​

“Utilisation of marine resources at the base of the food chain is the way of the future to supply enough nutrients to the world.”​

Broodstock Capital investment​

The rebrand coincides with Broodstock Capital’s €10m investment in Zooca last month, where the  investment firm became the major shareholder in the company.

Under terms of the agreement, Calanus receives €9.7m (NOK100m) in new equity through a private placement. Meanwhile, Broodstock Capital intends to purchase shares from existing shareholders.

“Calanus is a pioneer when it comes to innovation and sustainable use of biomarine resources,and has the potential to see a new standard for the Norwegian biomarine industry, with processing inworld class,” ​says Pål Kristian Moe, Partner at Broodstock Capital.​

“They in turn will be able to lead to increased value creation and employment as well as ripple effects locally and for the industry. ​

“Broodstock wants to push Calanus all the way to commercial production and has therefore chosen to enter with both capital and expertise,” ​he adds.

Bioactive omega-3 form​

The Tromsø -based firm’s main product is its bioactive form of omega-3 that is said to counteract insulin resistance and other obesity-induced metabolic disorders. It also exhibits a potent anti-inflammatory effect.

Extracted from the copepods of the same name Calanus finmarchicus​, the oil contains the omega-3s Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) predominantly in the wax ester form (the oil is slightly viscous). The oil also contains astaxanthin, which gives it its ruby colour.

A recent review​​ identified one possible mechanism of action of the oil, appearing to act as a potent stimulators of the GPR120 receptor, which is associated with reduced inflammation.