Oriel Sea Salt, a Co. Louth-based sea salt harvesting business, has launched the world's first deep sea liquid magnesium health supplement. The company extracts magnesium and minerals from deep seawater for use in health, well-being and skin care products. Oriel Sea Salt CEO and co-founder, Brian Fitzpatrick, said that the magnesium-based liquid food supplement will soon be available online across the USA, Canada and the Middle East, giving consumers access to this unique form of liquid magnesium, minerals and trace elements vital to good health.
The company started as a sea salt harvesting business in 2013 and was the brainchild of Brian Fitzpatrick and his business partner, John Delany. The journey to becoming a global leader in liquid magnesium production began when the company discovered that a by-product of its sea salt production were minerals with exceptional qualities and benefits for health and nutrition. Oriel Sea Salt has invested in and developed technology, which has now been patented in Ireland, UK, EU, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
The company has been supported by various agencies, including Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), in developing its patented technology and acquiring new equipment vital to seeing its business grow. A grant under the Brexit Blue Economy Enterprise Development Scheme, implemented by BIM, has been a great support to Oriel.
Oriel is now the only company globally to harvest magnesium, minerals and trace elements in this unique free ion form directly from deep seawater. It is also the only company to hold Protected Designation of Origin status (PDO) from the EU Commission for its Minerals and Sea Salt.
Magnesium connects and impacts health, immunity, sleep, and energy, said Brian. It is used in nutrition supplementation, medical devices and many high-street skincare and cosmetic brands.
Oriel has worked with scientists at DCU over the last several years to develop this unique form of liquid magnesium, with research published in medical, science and skincare journals. The company's blue-chip clients in skincare include Neals Yard Remedies, ESPA, GOSH and Pestle & Mortar.
Oriel Sea Salt is harvested underwater using a special process. It has significantly less sodium than other salt and allows a reduction of 25% sodium without impacting on flavour. It is used by Ireland’s top chefs and has many accreditations, including four Blas na hEireann awards and four Great Taste awards. Oriel products have Organic Certification and Gold Standard Origin Green status for Sustainability and are used by many major brands, including Coca-Cola, Ballymaloe, East Coast Bakehouse, Waterford Blaa and O'Donnells Crisps.
“This is true diversification as the company evolves from being food-based (sea salt) to being a supplier of products to health, wellbeing and life science sectors. We anticipate that up to 75% of our products will be exported by the end of this year,” said Brian.
