Is salmon skin a magic ingredient for wellness protein products and anti-aging cosmetics?

In a move to transform Australia’s health, wellness, and cosmetics industries, Deakin University and Bellarine Foods have partnered to explore how high-value protein products from local marine byproducts, including collagen, can supplement protein powders and cosmetic anti-aging creams.

Supported by Deakin’s Recycling and Clean Energy Commercialisation Hub (REACH), the research project is focused on strengthening Australia’s capability to develop homegrown, sustainable protein solutions.

Shifting dietary trends, rising health consciousness and the booming popularity of protein powders and nutraceuticals is behind a global surge in the exploration of sustainable and eco-friendly protein alternatives.

The project, led by Chair in Biotechnology Deakin Distinguished Professor Colin Barrow at the School of Life and Environmental Sciences and the Centre for Sustainable Bioproducts, is exploring an enzyme-based method to extract valuable proteins from aquaculture waste without the use of harsh chemicals.

‘If successful this project could offer a greener, more cost-effective alternative to traditional protein processing methods,’ Professor Barrow said.

‘Marine byproducts from salmon skin and mussels, such as collagen, are incredibly rich in protein and hold tremendous potential for health-focused products,’ Professor Barrow said.

 ‘Our focus is on developing safer, chemical-free extraction processes that reduces landfill waste, supports a circular economy, and lay the foundation for a greener, more sustainable future for the aquaculture industry.’

Lab trials have been promising, indicating potential applications ranging from omega-3 supplements that support brain and heart health, to collagen-enriched nutraceuticals that can help with muscle recovery and skin elasticity.

The collaboration also involves CSIRO’s Food Innovation Centre in Werribee, whose specialist facilities will help scale the process and assess its potential for further commercial and environmental impact. The team aims to move from lab testing to pilot production in 2026, with a commercial rollout to follow.

‘Scaling is incremental and sequential,’ Bellarine Foods CEO Murray de Jong said. ‘We’re focused on developing a production model that’s cost-effective, market-ready and delivers high grade hydrolysed proteins – like collagen – used in wellness supplements, protein powders and anti-ageing products.’

‘It’s not just about the technology, it’s about creating a trusted, homegrown supply chain grounded in Australia. We want to offer wellness products that meet the highest quality standards and ingredient transparency, something imported products often lack,’ Mr de Jong said.

Backed by a $50 million grant from the Australian Government’s Trailblazer Universities Program, with industry and university support, REACH is facilitating the development of greener supply chains and the move to a circular economy.?Explore more REACH projects at reach@deakin.edu.au.