Sustenso develops and utilizes state-of-the-art technology for the circular cultivation of high-quality algae intended for the human and veterinary industries, the cosmetics industry, and the food industry.

about sustenso

Founded in 2016, we are a project-based company producing high-quality algae-derived ingredients through sustainable innovation. From building a biogas plant to developing spirulina-based ingredients, our mission is to create a zero-waste circular economy. Join us in shaping the future of food and wellness.

how it began

How can organic waste from the agricultural sector, such as grain residues, roadside grass, and cocoa husks, be utilized intelligently and sustainably? This question motivated circular entrepreneur Hans van der Weide to establish Sustenso (SUSTainable ENvironmental SOlutions). His mission: to protect the environment and support growers and farmers in achieving higher yields without waste. Sustenso now cultivates high-quality Spirulina algae in a self-developed pilot plant, which is fully compliant with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). The goal is to deliver the first products by the spring of 2026.

Hans van der Weide

Founder & CEO of Sustenso

SIOO, Master of Change Management, Strategic Management.


Expertise: management consulting, business strategy & development, project management, change management.

Prof. Dr. Joost Teixeira de Mattos

Board member and manager science

Emeritus Professor of Quantitative Microbial Physiology (UvA) and co-founder of Photanol BV.
Joost has extensive research experience in fermentation processes. His physiological expertise in photosynthetic microorganisms is highly valuable in large-scale algae cultivation.

Chata Mundell

Assistant Director & Operations Manager

Fermentation specialist with roots in the wine industry, BSc & MSc in Viticulture and Oenology.
She has broad expertise in fermentation and operational experience in food-grade production and has also worked at a scale-up pilot plant for microalgae.

Boris Polm

Board member and manager finance

Boris has been involved in Sustenso's business cases for years and is affiliated with F.INSTITUTE, a company that provides financial administration and advisory services for the Deeptech and Life Science & Health sectors.

Cees Witjes

Board member & marketing expert

In addition to his shareholding from the very beginning, Cees has extensive experience as an entrepreneur with an emphasis on marketing and sales. In addition, Cees has a great interest in sustainable environmentally friendly solutions.

our products

high-value spirulina ingredients for your industry

At Sustenso, we are dedicated to providing top-quality, sustainable ingredients that can propel your products forward. We produce high-quality food ingredients from spirulina, a nutrient-rich superfood packed with bioactive compounds, including proteins, carbohydrates, omega-3 fatty acids, pigments like phycocyanin, and essential minerals.
Ideal for forward-thinking producers in the food, cosmetics, nutraceutical, and pet food industries.

our solutions

phycocyanin

A vibrant, natural blue pigment ideal for health-boosting sodas, cold food products, and cosmetics. Safe, stable, and perfect for wellness-focused brands. It boosts the immune system, reduces inflammation, and promotes overall well-being.

fatty acids

Essential omega-3 for dietary supplements, skincare, and vegan soaps. This solution enhances product appeal while supporting consumer health.

protein & carbohydrate curd

Rich in proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, our spirulina curd is perfect for sports nutrition products like protein bars and shakes, as well as vegan pet food, delivering maximum nutritional benefits.

our distinctive quality

Sustenso algae stand out in four crucial aspects:

The highest quality

All raw materials used by Sustenso for algae cultivation are continuously monitored and analyzed for purity and quality. We use a continuous cultivation and harvesting technology, resulting in a robust and efficient process.

Energy-efficient production

Manufacturer Lgem’s patented technique, used by Sustenso to mix the algae solution in the bioreactor, is highly energy-efficient, ensuring low mechanical stress for the algae, optimal light exposure, and efficient oxygen removal. All systems operate as much as possible on solar energy, supplemented by light distribution.

Full circularity

The CO₂ and nutrients for the algae come from a local biogas plant processing agricultural waste streams. This is unique and makes the cultivation process circular.

Optimal reliability

Processes and procedures at Sustenso comply with the Netherlands’ strict Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certification requirements.

our Technology

choose quality, reliability, and sustainability

In today’s competitive market, producers need high-quality ingredients that consistently deliver on both performance and sustainability.


At Sustenso, we understand these challenges. Our spirulina-derived products are crafted using advanced, proven technology adapted from the brewing and dairy industries. This ensures you receive premium, reliable ingredients. Additionally, our circular production model addresses growing consumer demand for eco-friendly, clean-label products while reducing environmental impact.