FROM BYTHOS TO HIGHGEL: SHAPING THE FUTURE STARTING FROM THE “WASTE” OF THE SEA.

In the heart of the Mediterranean, between Mazara del Vallo and biotechnology research laboratories, a vision is taking shape – one that could transform the relationship between humans and the sea: turning fishery by‑products into high‑value resources.

The red shrimp of Mazara, renowned worldwide for the quality of its meat, generates tons of waste every year – heads, shells, exoskeletons. But what was once considered waste is now becoming raw material for a sustainable future.

From this intuition, Highgel was born: the natural evolution of the work begun with Bythos.

Co‑funded by the Interreg VI‑A Italy–Malta Programme, Highgel develops innovative biotechnological solutions from red shrimp and fish by‑products:

🔹 biomedical hydrogels and wound‑healing devices
🔹 high‑protein feed for aquaculture and livestock
🔹 new pathways for the full valorisation of marine biomass

The project is inspired by the “100% Fish Movement”, promoted by organizations such as Ocean Cluster Iceland, which has long demonstrated how every part of the fish can create economic, environmental, and social value.

Highgel embraces this shared vision and adapts it to the Mediterranean context – combining scientific innovation, sustainability, and territorial identity to build a concrete model of circular blue bioeconomy.

“Every by‑product holds unexplored potential. It’s up to us to give it shape”.

💬 Do you want to contribute or learn more? Comment below or contact the Highgel team at
📩 highgelprojectmanager@gmail.com

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