TITLE: Production of natural pigments by Monascus  

Type of profile: Technology Offer

Abstract:  Monascus purpureus is widely used in the Far East countries (Japan, China) to give red or orange coloration rice (“red rice”), wine or several food products. It is also being used in Europe and the USA. In Europe it is authorized as a natural product. INBIOTEC has developed pigment over produce strains from a rice isolate of Monascus. We have strains that overproduce either red pigments, orange or yellow pigments. The technology for recovery and addition to foods is also available.

Detailed description: Strain of Monascus purpureus or Monascus rubber are widely used to produce natural pigments that used in the food industry. We have developed mutant over producer strains that produce either red o orange pigments. The technology transfer includes overproducing strains and know-how.

Innovative aspects. The innovative aspects include the isolation of mutants that produce either red or yellow pigments. Some of these pigments are water-soluble and can be extracted easily.

Main advantages. The main advantage is the high intensity of the color and the possibility of using separate pigment mixtures.

Current state of development of the technology. Available for demonstration – field tested

Intellectual Property Rights. Secret know-how

Keywords selection: Drink technology, Food technology, Food Microbiology/Toxicology/Quality Control, Food Additives/Ingredients, Nutrition and Healt

Comments about market applications:  Common application in the meat industry. There is a wide market for improved starters. 

Collaboration details: Licence agreement; Commercial agreement with technical assistance; Joint Venure agreement

Type of partner sought. Industries for exploitation of the technology

The specific area of activity of the partner. Food Products

The tasks to be performed of the partner sought. Production and marketing

Valid until: 12/12/2005

Index

Contact:

Dr. Juan Francisco Martín

Phone:  +34 987 291505 (9:00 a 14:30 hs)

Phone: +34 987 210308 (17 a 20 hs)

Fax: +34 987 210388

E-mail: direccion@inbiotec.com o degjmm@unileon.es