Local businesses collaborate to drive growth of seaweed-based animal nutrition

Oranmore-based Hygeia has partnered with Sealac Seaweed Nutrition to broaden access to Sealac’s premium concentrated seaweed products across Ireland.

Sealac, a family-run company established in 2016 and based in Kiltimagh, specialises in harvesting and processing Atlantic seaweed (Ascophyllum nodosum) to create a unique range of concentrated seaweed feeds for animal nutrition.

This new distribution partnership allows each company to focus on what they do best. Sealac will continue producing super-concentrated seaweed powders, as well as work on expanding their innovative animal nutrition range.

Hygeia, in turn, will utilise its established nationwide distribution network to bring the Sealac range to a wider audience, making these high-quality products more accessible to farmers throughout the country.

Both Hygeia and Sealac are proudly rooted in Irish heritage.

Hygeia is a family-owned Irish company with a proud heritage dating back to 1939. For over 85 years, Hygeia has supported generations of farmers with trusted agricultural products designed to promote productivity and sustainability.

This partnership with Sealac is a natural extension of Hygeia’s ongoing commitment to delivering the very best solutions to Irish agriculture.

Sealac is an expert in producing unique, super-concentrated seaweed powders, using a highly specialised drying process that has been refined over several years at its dedicated facility in Co Mayo.

These powders are saturated with minerals, vitamins, antioxidants and bioactive compounds, present in significantly higher concentrations per gram than in standard seaweed powders on the market.

Extensive research into the benefits of feeding Ascophyllum nodosum to animals has shown that these natural compounds act as prebiotics and support digestion, coat condition, immune function, reduce methane emissions and overall animal health.

“We’re honoured to work with Hygeia and become part of its product portfolio,” said Martin Dempsey, co-founder of Sealac Seaweed Nutrition.

“Hygeia is an incredible company to work with, and we’re excited about the resources and reliable customer service they will deliver to farmers across the country,” he added.

Sealac focuses on delivering targeted, seaweed-based nutrition to support animals from day one through to maturity. Its supplements are designed to fit into any farming system, enhancing health, performance and development.

“Hygeia is thrilled to partner with Sealac Seaweed Nutrition,” said John Byrne, CEO of Hygeia.

“We pride ourselves on providing our customers with exceptional brands that reflect our commitment to promoting animal health and nutrition through natural, sustainable and innovative products, such as Sealac’s range.

“Sealac and Hygeia share a strong vision for the future of sustainable animal nutrition. Together, we are committed to growing this partnership and delivering innovative, high-quality products that meet the evolving needs of farmers across Ireland,” added John.

The partnership between Hygeia and Sealac Seaweed Nutrition strengthens the supply chain of sustainable animal feed, supporting farmers and livestock health across Ireland.

Pictured: Launching Sealac Seaweed Nutrition’s partnership with Hygeia were (from left) Rebecca and Martin Dempsey of Sealac, Keelan McNamara and John Byrne from Hygeia, and Jennifer Dempsey, Sealac.