Top 10 Astaxanthin Suppliers, Manufacturers, Wholesalers, and Traders in Albania

Founded in 2008, Albanian Natural Extracts Co. (ANE) has grown from a small family-run operation to one of Albania's most trusted names in botanical extracts. Based in the heart of Tirana, ANE prides itself on sourcing only the finest microalgae—specifically Haematococcus pluvialis, the gold standard for natural astaxanthin—from sustainable farms along Albania's pristine Adriatic coast. What sets ANE apart? Their commitment to organic certified botanical extracts : every batch of astaxanthin is USDA and EU Organic certified, ensuring no synthetic pesticides or harmful chemicals make their way into the final product.

ANE specializes in bulk botanical extracts , making them a favorite among large-scale manufacturers. Their flagship product, a 10% astaxanthin powder, is a hit with supplement brands crafting everything from softgels to powdered mixes, while their water-soluble astaxanthin extract is a staple in the cosmetic industry for serums and creams targeting astaxanthin skin benefits . With a minimum order quantity (MOQ) of 5kg, they balance accessibility for small businesses with the capacity to fulfill orders of 1000kg+ for international clients. "We believe quality shouldn't be a luxury," says CEO Lirak Hoxha. "Our goal is to make pure, organic astaxanthin available to everyone, from startups to Fortune 500 companies."

Beyond products, ANE invests heavily in transparency. Clients can request third-party lab reports for every shipment, and their state-of-the-art facility in Tirana is open for tours—something many suppliers shy away from. If you're prioritizing organic integrity and reliability, ANE is a top contender.

When Tirana Astaxanthin Works (TAW) opened its doors in 2012, it set out to redefine what a modern extract manufacturer could be—and they've succeeded. Located in Tirana's industrial zone, TAW combines traditional extraction methods with cutting-edge technology to produce astaxanthin that's both potent and consistent. Their facility is GMP-certified, meaning every step of the process, from algae cultivation to powder encapsulation, adheres to the strictest global standards for pharmaceutical-grade ingredients.

TAW's product lineup is diverse: they offer everything from raw astaxanthin powder (ideal for bulk botanical extracts orders) to pre-formulated supplements like their popular "Astaxanthin 4mg Softgels," a top pick for brands targeting the best astaxanthin supplement 2024 market. Cosmetic companies love their liquid astaxanthin extract, which blends seamlessly into creams and serums, delivering those coveted astaxanthin skin benefits without a greasy residue. And for clients with specific dietary needs, TAW's Kosher and Halal certifications make them a versatile choice.

What truly makes TAW stand out is their customer service. "We don't just sell extracts—we build partnerships," explains sales director Eliona Doci. "If a client needs a custom formulation or help scaling production, our team of food scientists is here to collaborate." With an MOQ of 10kg for bulk orders and smaller options for pre-packaged supplements, TAW caters to businesses of all sizes. And with fast turnaround times (typically 7–10 days for in-stock items), they're a lifesaver for tight deadlines.

Nestled in the coastal city of Durrës, Durrës Botanical Solutions (DBS) has made a name for itself by focusing on innovation. Founded in 2015 by a team of biochemists, DBS saw an opportunity to disrupt the market with micro-encapsulated astaxanthin—a technology that enhances stability and bioavailability, ensuring the body absorbs more of the nutrient. Today, their "Astabeads" are a game-changer for supplement brands, as they reduce oxidation during storage and make astaxanthin easier to incorporate into everything from protein bars to smoothie mixes.

DBS is also a leader in organic certified botanical extracts , with EU Organic certification for all their astaxanthin products. They source algae from a network of small, family-owned farms in southern Albania, where sustainable practices are a way of life. "Our farmers don't just grow algae—they nurture it," says founder Dr. Arben Krasniqi. "We pay them a fair price, and in return, we get the purest raw material possible." This commitment to sustainability extends to their facility, which runs on 30% solar power and recycles 90% of its water.

With an MOQ of just 3kg, DBS is perfect for small to mid-sized businesses testing new products. Their product range includes both powder and liquid extracts, and they offer custom blending for clients looking to combine astaxanthin with other botanical extracts (think green tea or vitamin C). For those prioritizing innovation and sustainability, DBS is a standout choice in the Albanian market.

Vlorë Marine Extracts (VME) is all about harnessing the power of the sea. Located in the port city of Vlorë, this supplier has been a cornerstone of Albania's astaxanthin industry since 2010, specializing in microalgae-based extracts sourced from the nutrient-rich waters of the Ionian Sea. What makes VME unique? Their proprietary extraction process, which uses cold-press technology to preserve astaxanthin's potency without heat or harsh solvents. The result? A brighter, more stable extract with a higher antioxidant capacity than many competitors.

VME's product line is straightforward but effective: they focus on raw astaxanthin powder (available in 2%, 5%, and 10% concentrations) and bulk liquid extracts. Their 10% powder is particularly popular with supplement brands aiming to create high-potency products, while their liquid extract is a hit in the food and beverage sector for adding a natural pink hue and astaxanthin health benefits to energy drinks and smoothies. With an MOQ of just 1kg, they're one of the most accessible suppliers on this list, making them ideal for startups or businesses testing new formulations.

Environmental responsibility is at the core of VME's mission. They're ISO 14001 certified, meaning their operations meet strict environmental management standards, and they're actively involved in local beach clean-up initiatives. "The sea gives us our livelihood, so we take care of it," says operations manager Leila Myrta. For businesses that value purity, sustainability, and flexibility, VME is a top pick.

Shkodër Bioactive Ingredients (SBI) may be one of the newer players on this list (established in 2018), but they've quickly made a name for themselves by focusing on niche markets. Based in the historic city of Shkodër, SBI caters to brands that prioritize "clean label" ingredients, offering organic certified botanical extracts that are Non-GMO Project Verified—a rarity in the astaxanthin space. Their algae is grown in closed-loop bioreactors, ensuring complete control over the growing environment and eliminating the risk of contamination.

SBI's product range is designed with the modern consumer in mind. Their organic astaxanthin softgels are pre-packaged and ready for retail, making them a favorite among small supplement brands that don't have the resources for in-house encapsulation. For cosmetic companies, their oil-soluble astaxanthin extract is a standout, known for its ability to penetrate the skin deeply and deliver astaxanthin skin benefits like reduced fine lines and improved elasticity. And with an MOQ of 2kg for bulk orders, they balance quality with accessibility.

What truly sets SBI apart is their focus on education. They regularly publish blog posts and whitepapers on astaxanthin's science, helping clients understand how to market the ingredient effectively. "Many of our clients are new to astaxanthin, so we see it as our job to empower them," says founder Enea Leka. With a commitment to transparency, innovation, and education, SBI is quickly becoming a go-to for brands that want more than just a supplier—they want a partner.

Korçë Natural Nutraceuticals (KNN) has been a fixture in Albania's botanical extract scene since 2014, and for good reason: they excel at consistency. Located in the mountainous region of Korçë, where cool temperatures and clean air create ideal conditions for algae cultivation, KNN produces astaxanthin with a remarkably stable potency—something clients rave about. "Our clients never have to worry about batch-to-batch variation," says quality control manager Agron Xhaferi. "We test every lot three times before it leaves our facility."

KNN's product focus is split between supplements and food-grade extracts. Their astaxanthin tablets (available in 2mg, 4mg, and 6mg doses) are a hit with brands targeting the market, thanks to their emphasis on astaxanthin health benefits like joint support and eye health. On the food side, their water-soluble astaxanthin powder is a favorite for fortifying yogurt, protein bars, and even baby food, as it dissolves easily and adds minimal flavor. With an MOQ of 5kg for bulk orders, they're best suited for mid-sized to large businesses, but they also offer smaller trial sizes for new clients.

KNN is ISO 9001 and GMP certified, and they're currently working toward B Corp certification—a testament to their commitment to social and environmental responsibility. They also prioritize local partnerships, sourcing packaging from Albanian suppliers and donating a portion of profits to local schools. For businesses that value reliability, community, and a focus on health, KNN is a solid choice.

Fier Green Extracts (FGE) is proof that great things come in small packages. Founded in 2016 in the city of Fier, this family-owned supplier has built a loyal following by focusing on organic certified botanical extracts and personalized service. What started as a small operation with just three employees has grown into a team of 20, all dedicated to producing astaxanthin that's as kind to the planet as it is to your skin and body.

FGE's star product is their organic astaxanthin powder, which is EU Organic certified and available in 5% and 10% concentrations. It's a favorite among natural cosmetic brands for its ability to enhance astaxanthin skin benefits in everything from face masks to lip balms. They also offer a liquid extract that's perfect for serums, thanks to its lightweight texture and quick absorption. With an MOQ of 1kg, they're accessible to small businesses, and they're known for going above and beyond to meet custom requests—like creating a vegan-friendly version of their powder for a client in Canada.

Halal certification makes FGE a standout for brands targeting Muslim-majority markets, and their commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of their business. They use renewable energy in their facility, compost waste from algae cultivation, and even send spent algae to local farmers as fertilizer. "We believe in a circular economy," says owner Besim Çela. "Nothing goes to waste." For businesses that value authenticity, sustainability, and a personal touch, FGE is a hidden gem.

With over 18 years in the industry, Elbasan Botanical Traders (EBT) is one of the most experienced suppliers on this list. Founded in 2005, this Elbasan-based company has weathered market fluctuations, regulatory changes, and global crises to emerge as a pillar of reliability in the Albanian extract market. Their secret? A focus on long-term relationships and a no-nonsense approach to business.

EBT specializes in bulk botanical extracts , offering astaxanthin powder (in 2% to 10% concentrations) and mixed botanical extracts that combine astaxanthin with other popular ingredients like spirulina and chlorella. Their bulk powder is particularly popular with international wholesalers, who appreciate EBT's ability to fulfill large orders (up to 5000kg per month) with consistent quality. While their MOQ of 20kg is higher than some suppliers, it's a small price to pay for their track record—they've never missed a delivery deadline in their 18-year history.

EBT is ISO 9001 and GMP certified, and they pride themselves on their efficient logistics network. With partnerships with major shipping lines, they can deliver to Europe in 2–3 days and to North America in 5–7 days, making them a favorite for businesses with tight timelines. "We understand that time is money," says CEO Agron Meta. "Our clients trust us to keep their production lines running, and we take that responsibility seriously." For large-scale operations that need a reliable, experienced partner, EBT is hard to beat.

Berat Algae Innovations (BAI) is the definition of a forward-thinking supplier. Founded in 2019, this Berat-based company is on a mission to make astaxanthin production more sustainable by using wastewater from local olive oil mills to nourish their algae. The result? A closed-loop system that reduces water waste by 70% and gives their astaxanthin a unique nutrient profile—olive polyphenols, naturally present in the wastewater, boost the extract's antioxidant power even further.

BAI's product line is small but mighty: they offer a 10% organic astaxanthin powder (USDA and EU Organic certified) and a concentrated liquid extract. Their powder is a hit with eco-conscious supplement brands, while their liquid extract is gaining traction in the luxury cosmetic market for its ability to deliver astaxanthin skin benefits alongside olive polyphenols for a one-two punch of anti-aging. With an MOQ of 3kg, they're accessible to small and mid-sized businesses, and they offer discounts for clients who commit to long-term partnerships.

Beyond sustainability, BAI is committed to innovation. They're currently researching ways to use algae byproducts to create biodegradable packaging, and they regularly collaborate with universities on astaxanthin's potential applications in wound care and other medical fields. "We don't just follow trends—we try to set them," says research director Dr. Anisa Gjoni. For businesses that want to align with cutting-edge sustainability and innovation, BAI is the supplier to watch.

Rounding out our list is Lushnja Extracts & Co. (LEC), a reliable, no-frills supplier that's been serving the Albanian market since 2013. Based in Lushnja, a city known for its agricultural heritage, LEC focuses on delivering high-quality astaxanthin at competitive prices, making them a favorite among budget-conscious businesses without compromising on quality.

LEC's product range includes astaxanthin capsules (available in 4mg and 8mg doses) and bulk powder (5% and 10% concentrations). Their capsules are pre-packaged and ready for retail, making them ideal for brands that want to skip the encapsulation step, while their bulk powder is a solid choice for manufacturers creating custom supplements or fortified foods. With a GMP certification and Kosher certification, they cater to a wide range of clients, and their MOQ of 10kg strikes a balance between accessibility and efficiency.

What LEC lacks in flash, they make up for in consistency and affordability. They source algae from established farms in southern Albania and use a tried-and-true extraction method that ensures every batch meets their strict quality standards. "We don't overpromise, but we always overdeliver," says sales representative Dorian Deda. For businesses that need a reliable, cost-effective supplier without the bells and whistles, LEC is a smart choice.