Ep 26. Algae Food Tubes

Innovation Nation season 5 episode 26 is titled "Algae Food Tubes". The episode explores the innovative world of sustainable food production and highlights a company that developed a new way to grow algae, which could revolutionize the food industry, especially for those living in areas with water scarcity.

Viewers are introduced to Water³, a company founded by three women from California who recognized the limited water resources in their state and were inspired to find a solution. They came up with the idea of growing algae in tubes that use recycled water and sunlight to yield a high-protein, nutritious form of food. The tubes are designed to be modular and scalable, which makes them ideal for use in urban areas where space is limited.

The episode shows how the Water³ team has been able to create a self-sustaining system that uses very little water and energy, yet produces a constant supply of fresh, high-quality algae. The team explains that their tubes are economically competitive with other sources of protein, and they have already partnered with several restaurants and food companies to incorporate their algae into different dishes.

In addition to learning about the benefits of algae food tubes, viewers are also introduced to other novel sustainable food production methods. These include a company that is growing mushrooms using coffee grounds, another that is making plant-based "meat" out of legumes, and a business that is turning food waste into valuable products like soap and fertilizer. The episode highlights the ingenuity and creativity of entrepreneurs who are dedicated to improving the sustainability of our food system.

Throughout the episode, host Mo Rocca interviews various experts and entrepreneurs to delve deeper into the science and practical applications of these innovations. He explores the challenges that each company has faced in developing their new products and what they hope to achieve in the future.

Overall, "Algae Food Tubes" is an engaging and insightful episode of Innovation Nation that highlights some of the most exciting developments in sustainable food production. It provides a glimpse into the future of food, where novel solutions and new technologies will play a crucial role in ensuring that we can feed the planet while protecting our natural resources.