Insect – Diptera
Non-invasive species
Present on all continents
Not a vector of disease
No known pathologies
Very broad food spectrum
Alpha-Chitin breeds the bio-resource Hermetia Illucens in its Fly-Farming operation in the south of France. They are working to maximize chitin production using this clean resource.
They have integrated methods and tools into their process to control biological development (reproduction, larval growth, dedicated environment, biosecurity) through a diet that complies with European legislation and is non-GMO.
Alpha-Chitin has designed a proprietary extraction and purification method adapted to the characteristics of our larvae. Its environmental footprint is greatly reduced and its efficiency allows the production of the widest range of chitosan specifications (from very low to very high molecular weight, adjustable crystallinity, medium to very high purity).
Chitosan Global is the only source for black soldier fly larvae in the U.S. This clean reliable source of ultra-pure chitin with virtually no contaminants can be turned into any derivative for use in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry. This versatile and eco-friendly material has garnered significant attention due to its wide range of applications and benefits across various industries.
Price List For Hermetia Chitosan
Chitosan from Hermetia illucens is a coarse, beige powder with relatively high molecular weight and higher deacetylation than crustacean-derived chitosan, making it more soluble and bioactive. Its uniform insect origin ensures consistent quality, enhanced antimicrobial properties, and better compatibility with biochemical processes due to its distinct molecular structure and more amorphous form. The prices below are quoted FOB Lacq, France in Euros per kg and vary according to the deacetylation degree, molecular weight and volume.
AlphaMax is a premium Chitosan product derived from Black Soldier fly larvae
Hermetia illucens (AlphaMax HI)
The unique extraction and purification process developed by Alpha-Chitin® sets AlphaMax apart from conventional chitosan products found on the market ensuring a fine grade of chitosan composed of highly tunable polysaccharides content (> 90 %), molecular mass and quality specifications on client’s demand.
Technical specifications of final products can be fine-tuned upon application and customer requests ; as well as the corresponding analytical plan. Our unique process capacity allows us to tune highly pure, deacetylated product with very low molecular
masses.
CAS number : 9012-76-4
HS code : 3913.90
QUALITY GUARANTEES
The process is designed under the strict HACCP methodology. Thus, following the standards for feed materials, we can tune our process to meet your quality specifications for undesirable substances and microbiology in accordance with the (CE) 2002/32 directive.
In addition, Alpha-Chitin can certify that :
– AlphaMax HI product range is allergen and endotoxin free.
– AlphaMax HI is containing Zero Animal Proteins (ZAP).
STATEMENTS & PROPERTIES
Chitosan is the only natural polymer to exert stable positive charges over a range of pH. Chitosan is widely used because of well recognized properties as;
Filmogenic property – it is the ability to form films and coatings is crucial in applications such as wound dressings, drug delivery systems, cosmetics and agriculture. Its film- forming ability provides protective barriers, controls the release of active ingredients, and enhances the texture and stability of products.
Bacteriostatic effect – Chitosan has inherent antibacterial properties, which are primarily due to its positive charge. This charge allows it to interact with the negatively charged cell membranes of bacteria, leading to disruptions in their function and growth inhibition. This antibacterial property is vital in medical applications (e.g., wound dressings, antibacterial coatings), and personal care products (e.g., toothpaste, deodorants).
Natural origin, Biodegradability and Biocompatibility – Being derived from chitin, chitosan is a natural polymer, making it an attractive option for eco-friendly and sustainable products. Chitosan is biodegradable and biocompatible, meaning it can be broken down by natural processes and is safe for use in biological systems. These properties are essential for biomedical applications, such as drug delivery, tissue engineering, and biodegradable packaging, ensuring that products are environmentally friendly and safe for human use.
The manufacturing process of ALPHA CHITIN products has received the GMP+ certification and ensures the safety of raw material for feed applications.
AlphaMax product range is better than competitor fungi based chitosans because :
– AlphaMax production is assuring repeatability from batch to batch and full traceability by following GMP+ requirements for all bioresource transformation and having a full control on each supply chain. In this regard, the whole production process is auditable and all the chitosans will behave the same way in your manufacturing process whatever the batch number.
– AlphaMax AN have a lower glucan content than competition, owing to our specific manufacturing process.
Moreover, AlphaMax AN product range is highly tunable : formulation & functionalization on demand. The quaternization or trimethylation of chitosan enable to maximize its biological activity.
APPLICATIONS
AlphaMax product range excels in various cosmetic, pharmaceutical, personal care, beverages, feed applications where is acts as binder, emulsifier, stabilizer,
thickener and/or preservative.
– Formulation of natural skin care, hair care and makeup products
– Excipient in pharmaceutical and medical formulations
– Technical adjuvant
– Stabilization of color, pigments and aromas
– Anti-bacterial activity
– Prevention of oxidation
– Restructuring of vegetable, fruit and meat purees
– Immobilization of enzymes or cells (cheese dairy, dietetics, aquaculture)
RECOMMANDATIONS FOR USE & SUPPORT
All our chitosans are delivered at pH 9.2. To solubilize them, you need to add 1% m/V of our chitosan in a 1% V/V acetic (or succinic) solution and stir it at least 15 minutes ; in order to reajust the pH below 6, where chitosans are commonly soluble.
Average molecular weight and deacetylation degree are driving chitosans solubility and functional properties. Therefore, we can support your formulation team and help you to select the best AlphaMax chitosan for your application. For any technical support, inquiries, or to explore custom solutions, please contact our Alpha-Chitin R&D team.
PACKAGING, TRANSPORT & SHELF-LIFE
AlphaMax is available in bags of 1kg or 25kg. Our packaging is designed to maintain product integrity and is aligned with our commitment to sustainability. We offer hassle-free transport and delivery options to ensure your procurement experience is smooth and convenient.
It is to be stored in a dry and cool place to ensure a 2-year shelf-life in regards of packaging integrity.
