#squalene

[mindblowingscience]

Researchers engineer poplar trees to synthesize valuable chemical squalene, normally harvested from shark livers

What do poplar trees, sharks and biofuels have in common? While it might sound a bit like a riddle, a team led by Michigan State University

What do poplar trees, sharks and biofuels have in common? While it might sound a bit like a riddle, a team led by Michigan State University biochemists has reported exciting findings concerning all three in the quest for cleaner energy. Published in the Plant Biotechnology Journal, the team's latest paper explores how poplar trees can be engineered to produce a highly valuable chemical that's commonly obtained from shark livers. Engineering poplars to produce this chemical would greatly boost their economic viability as an already-promising source of biofuels, as well as help cut back on destructive shark harvesting.

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[lotionsandlipsticks]

Fun Fact Friday - What is Squalane?🧐

I don’t know if it’s because of the warmer weather or not, but my skin is getting pretty dry at the moment, which is surprising news for someone who usually has slightly oily skin. It’s time to look at some hydrating ingredients, and squalane is one that gets recommended time and time again for its nourishing properties. Let’s take a look at what it has to offer! 

Squalane is derived from squalene - a molecule that’s naturally found in our skin.

But squalene is too unstable to be used in skincare/haircare products as it spoils quickly, so it has to be combined with hydrogen instead.

This gives us squalane!

It mimics sebum produced by our skin, which helps to moisturise the skin, protect the skin’s barrier and keep everything smooth and supple.

As a result, it acts as an emollient - it plumps up the skin by retaining moisture found between skin cells. 

So it’s great for dry, combination and sensitive skin, as it hydrates without causing irritation.

Those with acne or oily skin, however, should steer clear as it can actually make things worse. 

[rjzimmerman]

Will 500,000 Sharks Be Slaughtered for a COVID-19 Cure?

Shark Allies, an advocacy group fighting against shark overfishing, claims that five COVID-19 vaccine candidates use shark squalene; the California-based non-profit is petitioning the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Europe, China and all vaccine developers to omit the compound or find an alternat...

This story should make us all think. Is it ok to kill sharks, so we can use shark liver oil as an essential component of COVID-19 vaccines? It bothers me. Do we have an alternative, such as industrial production of squalene, the component of shark liver oil that we use in vaccines.

Excerpt from this story from EcoWatch:

Scientists are racing to create a cure for COVID-19, but the toll on sharks might be irreparable. Conservationists estimate that half a million of the predators may be killed to supply the world with a coronavirus vaccine when one is developed.

Shark liver oil is primarily made of squalene, which helps regulate a shark's buoyancy in deep water. The compound is also found in plants, humans and other animals. Used as a moisturizing agent in cosmetics, squalene also creates a stronger immune response in vaccines, making them more effective, reported Science Times.

Squalene has been used in flu vaccines since 1997, Boston 25 News reported, and has an "excellent safety record" according to the CDC, Miami Herald reported. It could also help reduce the amount of vaccine needed per person, the Boston news report said.

Shark Allies, an advocacy group fighting against shark overfishing, claims that five COVID-19 vaccine candidates use shark squalene; the California-based non-profit is petitioning the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Europe, China and all vaccine developers to omit the compound or find an alternative that doesn't require sharks.

Shark Allies worries that the development and production of enough vaccines to create worldwide immunization to the novel coronavirus and future coronaviruses that are identified could carry "an immense ecological cost," VICE reported.

In a popular online campaign, Shark Allies outlined the non-shark alternatives for squalene already in existence. Plant-based oils can be harvested from things like yeast, wheat germ, sugarcane and olive oil, VICE and Miami Herald reported. Bacteria-created squalene has also been researched, the petition noted. The problem with these alternatives is that they are about 30% more expensive and harder to extract than shark-based squalene, Miami Herald reported.

[we-make-haste-blog]

There Might Be Shark In Your Sunscreen

Oil derived from shark livers is a common ingredient in cosmetics, and the demand for it could be putting deep-sea sharks in peril.

"Millions of rare, deep-sea sharks are killed each year to support a multimillion-dollar industry—but which one might surprise you. In remote regions around the world, fishermen pull sharks out of the deep and harvest their livers. Shark livers contain an oil, known as squalene, that’s widespread in sunscreen, lipstick, foundation, lotion, and many other cosmetics."

[themarketresearchtrends-blog]

Squalene Market 2030: Unlocking the Secrets of Natural Hydration

The global squalene market was valued at USD 149.4 million in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 307.9 million by 2030, expanding at a CAGR of 10.9% from 2024 to 2030. The rising preference for natural ingredients in the personal care and cosmetics industry is one of the primary factors driving market growth.

Squalene is a translucent, low-odor compound recognized for its strong moisturizing properties, making it one of the most widely used emollients globally. Its non-toxic nature contributes significantly to its popularity in personal care applications. In the cosmetics sector, squalene oil is valued for its ability to neutralize free radicals that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging.

The ingredient is featured in a broad range of cosmetic and personal care products, including lotions, hair conditioners, bath oils, lipsticks, creams, and foundations. Increasing consumer demand for natural and organic formulations is further strengthening market demand. Additionally, the use of squalene in vaccines is contributing to market expansion. Squalene is an essential component in several vaccines—including COVID-19 vaccines—due to its strong adjuvant properties that help enhance immune response.

Squalene used in pharmaceutical and vaccine applications is typically derived from purified fish oil extracted from sharks. However, a report from the International Trade of Endangered Species indicates that five shark species are currently threatened with extinction. This scenario is expected to reduce the reliance on animal-based sources and accelerate the shift toward plant-based and synthetic alternatives.

Order a free sample PDF of the Squalene Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.

Key Market Trends & Insights

Europe led the market in 2023 with a 32.8% revenue share, followed by Asia Pacific. This dominance is linked to the region’s large-scale olive oil production—a major plant-based source of squalene—and strong demand from major economies such as Germany, France, the UK, Italy, and Spain.

Plant-based sources accounted for over 82.3% of revenue in 2023. This shift is driven by declining shark populations, rising consumer awareness of animal welfare, and government regulations aimed at protecting marine species.

The personal care and cosmetics segment held over 70.1% of the market in 2023. Its leadership is attributed to the extensive use of squalene in skincare and haircare formulations.

Market Size & Forecast

2023 Market Size: USD 149.4 Million

2030 Projected Market Size: USD 307.9 Million

CAGR (2024-2030): 10.9%

Europe: Largest market in 2023

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

The squalene market is fragmented and highly competitive, with major players concentrated in Europe and North America, while numerous smaller manufacturers are based in the Asia Pacific region—particularly in India, China, and Japan—where access to shark liver oil and olive oil is abundant.

Leading companies frequently form partnerships to expand their product reach and leverage broader distribution networks. For example, in May 2023, Amyris announced a partnership with Croda International Plc. to supply pharmaceutical-grade squalene for use in vaccine adjuvants designed to improve immune response.

Key Players

Amyris, Inc.

Sophim SAS

Henry Lamotte Oils GmbH

efpbiotek

Vestan Limited

Kuraray Co., Ltd.

Croda International Plc

AASHA BIOCHEM

Arbee

Oleicfat, s.l.

Kishimoto Special Liver Oil Co., Ltd.

Explore Horizon Databook – The world's most expansive market intelligence platform developed by Grand View Research.

Conclusion

The global squalene market is poised for steady growth, supported by increasing demand for natural and organic ingredients in cosmetics and personal care products. Its role as a moisturizing and anti-aging ingredient continues to anchor its importance in premium formulations. The expanding use of squalene in vaccines further strengthens market prospects, particularly as global health initiatives emphasize effective immunization technologies. As environmental concerns and regulatory measures limit shark-derived squalene, plant-based and synthetic alternatives are expected to gain momentum. With Europe leading the market and strong growth anticipated across Asia Pacific, the industry is set for continued expansion through 2030.

[biology-geology-beaches-india]

The Scientific research Notes Of S. Sunkavally (years: 2002-2011).

1785-1786.

[biology-geology-beaches-india]

The scientific research Notes of S. Sunkavally (years: 2002-2011).

788-792

[remembering-the-future]

Unleash the Future of Humanity: Glossolalias, Boastfulnesses, and the Squalene Revolution

In the year 2147, humanity stands on the precipice of its greatest evolutionary leap, fueled by the astonishing convergence of ancient practices, cutting-edge biochemistry, and bold new ways of self-expression. Enter Glossolalias™, the revolutionary neural enhancement that allows humans to communicate in universal, emotion-driven tongues once thought confined to mystics and religious ecstasies. Powered by AI-optimized brain interfaces, this breakthrough transforms the art of speaking in tongues into a dynamic, real-time, multi-dimensional form of communication. Express your innermost thoughts with vivid fluency, connect across cultures without language barriers, and evolve beyond mere words into the realm of pure, vibrant connection.

Of course, true evolution doesn’t end with communication—it demands confidence. Enter Boastfulnesses™, the proprietary neurochemical catalyst that rewires the brain for unparalleled self-assurance. Derived from the neural pathways of history’s most audacious visionaries, this supplement makes imposter syndrome a thing of the past. From boardrooms to starship launches, wear your ambition like a crown and project your innate greatness. Boastfulnesses™ doesn’t just make you believe in yourself—it makes others believe in you, too. Paired with Glossolalias™, it creates a synergy of charisma so profound it’s been dubbed "the ultimate evolutionary superpower."

But what fuels this transformation? The answer lies deep within the oceans: Squalene™. This ancient elixir, derived sustainably from algae and perfected through quantum biochemistry, has become the cornerstone of human adaptability. With its unique ability to enhance cellular regeneration and neural plasticity, Squalene™ ensures that every evolutionary upgrade—be it linguistic, psychological, or physical—occurs seamlessly and safely. From space colonization to underwater cities, squalene-based biotechnologies empower humanity to thrive in environments once deemed inhospitable. So why wait? The future isn't just about survival—it's about audacity, evolution, and an uncompromising embrace of the extraordinary. Join the Glossolalias™, Boastfulnesses™, and Squalene™ revolution today, and become the next chapter in the saga of human evolution!