Mixotrophic Microalgae Biorefining 2025: Accelerating Bioeconomy Growth & Innovation

Mixotrophic Microalgae Biorefining in 2025: Unleashing the Next Wave of Sustainable Bioproducts and Market Expansion. Discover How Hybrid Cultivation is Transforming the Bioeconomy Landscape.

Mixotrophic microalgae biorefining is emerging as a pivotal technology in the bioeconomy, leveraging the unique metabolic flexibility of microalgae to convert both organic and inorganic carbon sources into high-value products. As of 2025, the sector is experiencing accelerated growth, driven by the convergence of sustainability imperatives, advances in cultivation technology, and expanding commercial applications across food, feed, biofuels, and specialty chemicals.

A key trend in 2025 is the increasing adoption of mixotrophic cultivation modes, which combine autotrophic (photosynthetic) and heterotrophic (organic substrate-based) growth. This approach enables higher biomass productivity and improved yields of target compounds such as proteins, lipids, and pigments. Companies like Algatech and DSM are actively scaling up mixotrophic production systems, focusing on microalgae strains such as Haematococcus pluvialis and Chlorella for astaxanthin and protein-rich ingredients, respectively. These firms are investing in hybrid photobioreactor and fermenter platforms to optimize resource use and reduce production costs.

Another significant driver is the integration of microalgae biorefining into circular economy models. Industrial players are increasingly utilizing waste streams—such as carbon dioxide from flue gases and organic effluents—as feedstocks for mixotrophic cultivation. Fermentalg and Corbion are notable for their efforts to valorize industrial byproducts, thereby enhancing both environmental and economic sustainability. This trend is supported by regulatory incentives in the EU and Asia-Pacific, where governments are prioritizing carbon capture and resource efficiency.

Market demand for microalgae-derived ingredients is also surging, particularly in the nutraceutical, aquafeed, and cosmetics sectors. Allmicroalgae and Solabia are expanding their product portfolios to include mixotrophically produced omega-3 oils, antioxidants, and natural colorants. These companies are responding to consumer preferences for sustainable, traceable, and plant-based alternatives.

Looking ahead, the outlook for mixotrophic microalgae biorefining remains robust. Ongoing R&D is expected to yield further improvements in strain engineering, process intensification, and downstream processing. Strategic partnerships between technology developers, food manufacturers, and energy companies are anticipated to accelerate commercialization. As the sector matures, mixotrophic biorefining is poised to play a central role in decarbonizing supply chains and diversifying the global bio-based product landscape.

Technology Overview: Mixotrophic Cultivation and Biorefining Processes

Mixotrophic microalgae biorefining is emerging as a promising technological approach for sustainable production of biofuels, high-value chemicals, and nutraceuticals. Mixotrophic cultivation leverages the ability of certain microalgae to utilize both inorganic (CO2) and organic carbon sources simultaneously, resulting in higher biomass productivity and improved yields of target compounds compared to strictly photoautotrophic or heterotrophic modes. As of 2025, this approach is gaining traction in both academic and industrial settings, with several companies and research consortia advancing pilot and demonstration-scale projects.

The core of mixotrophic biorefining lies in the integration of cultivation and downstream processing technologies. In mixotrophic systems, microalgae such as Chlorella, Scenedesmus, and Haematococcus are cultivated in photobioreactors or open ponds, supplemented with organic substrates like acetate, glycerol, or waste streams from food and beverage industries. This dual carbon uptake not only accelerates growth rates but also enhances the accumulation of lipids, proteins, and pigments, which are key feedstocks for biorefinery operations.

Recent advances in photobioreactor design, such as improved light distribution, automated nutrient dosing, and real-time monitoring, have enabled more efficient mixotrophic cultivation at scale. Companies like AlgaEnergy and Algatech are actively developing and deploying proprietary cultivation systems that support mixotrophic growth, targeting applications in bioactive ingredients and functional foods. AlgaEnergy, for example, has reported increased productivity in their microalgae-based products by optimizing cultivation parameters for mixotrophic conditions.

On the biorefining side, integrated processes are being designed to fractionate the algal biomass into multiple product streams. Technologies such as wet extraction, supercritical CO2 extraction, and membrane filtration are being adapted to handle the unique composition of mixotrophically grown microalgae. Companies like Corbion are leveraging their expertise in fermentation and downstream processing to valorize algal lipids and proteins for food, feed, and specialty chemical markets.

Looking ahead to the next few years, the outlook for mixotrophic microalgae biorefining is positive, driven by increasing demand for sustainable ingredients and the need to valorize waste streams. Industry collaborations and public-private partnerships are expected to accelerate the commercialization of these technologies. The sector is also likely to benefit from regulatory support for circular bioeconomy initiatives and advances in synthetic biology, which could further optimize microalgal strains for mixotrophic growth and product specificity. As more demonstration plants come online and supply chains mature, mixotrophic microalgae biorefining is poised to play a significant role in the global transition to sustainable bioproducts.

Market Size and Growth Forecast (2025–2030): CAGR and Revenue Projections

The global market for mixotrophic microalgae biorefining is poised for significant expansion between 2025 and 2030, driven by increasing demand for sustainable bio-based products, advances in cultivation technologies, and supportive regulatory frameworks. Mixotrophic cultivation—where microalgae utilize both light (photosynthesis) and organic carbon sources—offers higher biomass yields and productivities compared to traditional phototrophic or heterotrophic methods, making it attractive for commercial-scale biorefining.

As of 2025, the mixotrophic microalgae biorefining sector is estimated to be a niche but rapidly growing segment within the broader microalgae market. The global microalgae market itself is projected to surpass USD 1.5 billion in 2025, with mixotrophic processes accounting for a small but rising share due to their efficiency and versatility. Industry leaders such as DSM, Corbion, and Fermentalg are actively investing in R&D and pilot-scale facilities to optimize mixotrophic production for high-value compounds, including omega-3 fatty acids, pigments, proteins, and specialty chemicals.

Between 2025 and 2030, the mixotrophic microalgae biorefining market is expected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 12–15%. This robust growth is underpinned by several factors:

  • Rising demand for sustainable alternatives in food, feed, nutraceuticals, and cosmetics.
  • Technological advancements in bioreactor design and process integration, enabling cost-effective scale-up.
  • Strategic partnerships and investments by major players such as DSM and Corbion to commercialize mixotrophic platforms.
  • Supportive policies and funding initiatives in the EU, US, and Asia-Pacific to promote bio-based industries.

Revenue projections for the mixotrophic microalgae biorefining segment suggest that by 2030, the market could reach USD 400–600 million, depending on the pace of commercialization and adoption across end-use sectors. Companies like Fermentalg are already scaling up production of mixotrophically derived omega-3 oils and pigments, while Corbion is expanding its algae-based ingredient portfolio for food and feed applications.

Looking ahead, the outlook for mixotrophic microalgae biorefining remains highly positive, with continued innovation, cost reductions, and market diversification expected to drive double-digit growth through 2030. The sector’s ability to deliver high-value, sustainable products positions it as a key contributor to the emerging bioeconomy.

Competitive Landscape: Leading Companies and Strategic Partnerships

The competitive landscape for mixotrophic microalgae biorefining in 2025 is characterized by a dynamic interplay of established biotechnology firms, emerging startups, and strategic partnerships aimed at scaling up production and diversifying product portfolios. Mixotrophic cultivation—where microalgae utilize both light and organic carbon sources—has gained traction due to its potential for higher biomass yields and enhanced productivities compared to traditional phototrophic or heterotrophic methods.

Among the global leaders, Corbion stands out for its integrated approach to microalgae-based ingredients. The company has invested in proprietary mixotrophic cultivation platforms, enabling the production of high-value omega-3 oils and proteins for food, feed, and nutraceutical markets. Corbion’s strategic collaborations with aquafeed producers and food manufacturers have accelerated the commercialization of microalgae-derived products, with ongoing expansion of its production facilities in the United States and Europe.

Another key player, DSM, has leveraged its expertise in microbial fermentation and algal biotechnology to develop mixotrophic processes for specialty lipids and pigments. DSM’s joint ventures and licensing agreements with feed and food industry leaders have positioned it as a major supplier of sustainable algal ingredients, particularly in the aquaculture and functional foods sectors. The company’s focus on sustainability and traceability aligns with growing regulatory and consumer demands.

In Asia, Euglena Co., Ltd. has pioneered the commercial-scale cultivation of Euglena microalgae using mixotrophic systems. The company’s vertically integrated model encompasses R&D, large-scale production, and downstream processing into biofuels, cosmetics, and health supplements. Euglena’s partnerships with energy and transportation companies underscore its ambitions to expand into renewable fuels and bioplastics, with pilot projects underway in Japan and Southeast Asia.

Startups such as Fermentalg in France are also making significant strides, focusing on mixotrophic production of natural pigments and omega-3s. Fermentalg’s collaborations with food and beverage multinationals have facilitated the entry of microalgae-derived ingredients into mainstream consumer products, with further scale-up anticipated through 2025 and beyond.

Looking ahead, the sector is expected to witness increased consolidation and cross-sector partnerships, as companies seek to optimize supply chains and leverage synergies in bioprocessing, downstream extraction, and product formulation. The integration of digital monitoring and AI-driven process optimization is anticipated to further enhance the efficiency and scalability of mixotrophic microalgae biorefineries, positioning the industry for robust growth in the coming years.

Applications: Biofuels, Nutraceuticals, Animal Feed, and Specialty Chemicals

Mixotrophic microalgae biorefining is gaining momentum as a versatile platform for producing a spectrum of high-value products, including biofuels, nutraceuticals, animal feed, and specialty chemicals. The mixotrophic cultivation mode—where microalgae utilize both light (photosynthesis) and organic carbon sources—enables higher biomass productivity and product yields compared to traditional phototrophic or heterotrophic systems. As of 2025, several industry players and research consortia are advancing the commercial viability of this approach, leveraging its flexibility to address diverse market demands.

In the biofuels sector, mixotrophic microalgae are being explored for their ability to accumulate lipids efficiently, which can be converted into biodiesel and renewable jet fuels. Companies such as Sapphire Energy and Algenol have previously demonstrated pilot-scale production of algal biofuels, and ongoing efforts are focused on optimizing mixotrophic cultivation to reduce costs and improve yields. The integration of waste streams (e.g., industrial CO2 and organic effluents) as feedstocks is a key trend, enhancing both sustainability and economic feasibility.

Nutraceutical applications are a major driver for mixotrophic microalgae biorefining, particularly for the production of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA), carotenoids (such as astaxanthin and lutein), and proteins. DSM and Cyanotech Corporation are among the leading companies commercializing microalgae-derived nutraceuticals. Mixotrophic cultivation allows for higher concentrations of these bioactives, meeting the growing demand for plant-based and sustainable health supplements. The global market for algal nutraceuticals is expected to expand significantly through 2025 and beyond, driven by consumer trends and regulatory support for alternative proteins and functional ingredients.

Animal feed is another promising application, with companies like Corbion and Alltech investing in microalgae-based feed ingredients rich in proteins, essential amino acids, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Mixotrophic systems can utilize agro-industrial byproducts, reducing feedstock costs and environmental impact. The aquaculture industry, in particular, is adopting microalgae-derived feeds to replace fishmeal and fish oil, supporting more sustainable seafood production.

Specialty chemicals, including pigments, biopolymers, and pharmaceuticals, represent a high-value segment for mixotrophic microalgae biorefining. Companies such as Fermentalg are developing processes to extract and purify these compounds at scale. The ability to tailor cultivation conditions in mixotrophic systems enables the targeted production of specific metabolites, opening new avenues for biobased chemicals and materials.

Looking ahead, the outlook for mixotrophic microalgae biorefining is positive, with ongoing R&D and pilot projects expected to transition into commercial-scale operations over the next few years. Strategic partnerships between technology developers, feedstock suppliers, and end-users will be crucial to overcoming scale-up challenges and achieving cost-competitive production. As regulatory frameworks evolve and sustainability imperatives intensify, mixotrophic microalgae biorefining is poised to play a pivotal role in the bioeconomy of 2025 and beyond.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact: Carbon Capture and Resource Efficiency

Mixotrophic microalgae biorefining is emerging as a promising approach to enhance sustainability and environmental performance in the bioeconomy, particularly in the context of carbon capture and resource efficiency. In 2025 and the coming years, the sector is expected to see significant advances driven by both technological innovation and increasing regulatory and market pressures for decarbonization.

Mixotrophic cultivation—where microalgae utilize both inorganic (CO2) and organic carbon sources—enables higher biomass productivity and more efficient nutrient utilization compared to traditional photoautotrophic or heterotrophic systems. This dual-mode metabolism allows for the integration of waste streams, such as industrial flue gases and organic-rich effluents, directly into the cultivation process, thereby enhancing carbon capture and reducing the environmental footprint of both the microalgae operation and the host industry.

Several companies are actively developing and scaling mixotrophic microalgae biorefining platforms. For example, Fermentalg in France is advancing microalgae-based solutions for carbon capture, with pilot projects demonstrating the ability to sequester CO2 from industrial emissions while producing high-value compounds. Similarly, AlgaEnergy in Spain is leveraging mixotrophic cultivation to valorize organic waste streams and produce a range of bioproducts, including biofertilizers and nutraceuticals. These companies are collaborating with industrial partners to integrate microalgae systems into existing infrastructure, aiming to close resource loops and improve overall process sustainability.

Resource efficiency is further enhanced by the biorefinery concept, which seeks to fractionate and valorize all components of the microalgal biomass. In 2025, the focus is on maximizing the extraction of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and pigments, thereby minimizing waste and increasing the economic viability of the process. Companies such as Cyanotech Corporation in the United States are optimizing downstream processing to recover multiple product streams from mixotrophically grown microalgae, supporting a circular bioeconomy model.

Looking ahead, the outlook for mixotrophic microalgae biorefining is positive, with ongoing R&D expected to further improve carbon capture rates, resource efficiency, and scalability. The sector is likely to benefit from supportive policy frameworks and growing demand for sustainable, low-carbon products. As more industrial emitters seek to reduce their carbon footprint, partnerships with microalgae technology providers are anticipated to expand, positioning mixotrophic biorefining as a key contributor to climate mitigation and resource circularity in the coming years.

Regulatory Environment and Industry Standards

The regulatory environment for mixotrophic microalgae biorefining is evolving rapidly as the sector matures and commercial interest intensifies. In 2025, regulatory frameworks are primarily shaped by the dual imperatives of environmental sustainability and product safety, with a growing emphasis on harmonizing standards across regions to facilitate international trade and investment.

In the United States, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) play central roles in overseeing microalgae-derived products. The EPA regulates environmental releases and the use of genetically modified strains, while the FDA oversees food, feed, and nutraceutical applications. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is also involved, particularly for bio-based chemicals and fuels. In 2025, these agencies are expected to further clarify guidance on the use of mixotrophic cultivation, especially regarding the use of organic carbon sources and genetically engineered microalgae, reflecting the sector’s shift toward higher-value bioproducts and integrated biorefinery models.

In the European Union, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) are key regulators for food, feed, and pharmaceutical applications, while the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) oversees chemicals under REACH regulations. The EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan and the European Green Deal are driving stricter sustainability criteria for biorefinery operations, including those using mixotrophic microalgae. In 2025, the EU is expected to introduce updated guidance on the use of waste-derived substrates and carbon sources in microalgae cultivation, aiming to ensure both safety and circularity.

Industry standards are also advancing. Organizations such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the ASTM International are developing and updating standards for algal biomass quality, traceability, and environmental performance. These standards are increasingly referenced in procurement and certification schemes, supporting market access for mixotrophic microalgae products.

Major industry players, including Corbion (a leader in microalgae-based ingredients), DSM (now part of dsm-firmenich, active in algal omega-3s), and Fermentalg (specializing in mixotrophic microalgae fermentation), are actively engaging with regulators and standards bodies to shape the evolving landscape. Their participation in industry consortia and public-private partnerships is expected to accelerate the adoption of best practices and regulatory harmonization.

Looking ahead, the regulatory environment for mixotrophic microalgae biorefining in 2025 and beyond will likely focus on enabling innovation while ensuring safety, sustainability, and transparency. Ongoing collaboration between industry, regulators, and standards organizations will be crucial to unlocking the full potential of mixotrophic microalgae in the global bioeconomy.

Innovation Pipeline: R&D, Patents, and Emerging Technologies

The innovation pipeline for mixotrophic microalgae biorefining is rapidly evolving as the sector seeks to address the dual challenges of sustainable production and economic viability. Mixotrophic cultivation—where microalgae utilize both light (photoautotrophy) and organic carbon sources (heterotrophy)—has gained traction for its potential to boost biomass yields and enhance the production of high-value compounds such as lipids, proteins, and pigments. As of 2025, research and development (R&D) efforts are intensifying, with a focus on optimizing cultivation systems, integrating biorefinery processes, and scaling up for industrial applications.

Several industry leaders and research consortia are at the forefront of this innovation. Fermentalg, a French biotechnology company, has been advancing mixotrophic and heterotrophic microalgae cultivation for the production of omega-3-rich oils and natural pigments. Their R&D pipeline includes proprietary strains and bioprocesses designed to maximize productivity and resource efficiency. Similarly, Corbion is leveraging its expertise in fermentation and microalgae to develop sustainable ingredients for food, feed, and specialty applications, with ongoing investments in process optimization and strain improvement.

Patent activity in the mixotrophic microalgae space has seen a marked increase, reflecting the sector’s maturation and the race to secure intellectual property (IP) around novel strains, cultivation methods, and downstream processing technologies. Companies such as DSM (now part of dsm-firmenich) and Evonik Industries have filed patents related to mixotrophic cultivation systems and the extraction of high-value compounds, underscoring the commercial interest in this approach. The European Patent Office and the United States Patent and Trademark Office have both reported a steady rise in filings related to microalgae biorefining, particularly in the context of integrated bioprocesses and circular economy models.

Emerging technologies in 2025 include advanced photobioreactor designs that enable flexible switching between autotrophic, heterotrophic, and mixotrophic modes, as well as the integration of waste valorization—using organic side streams as feedstocks for microalgae. Companies like AlgaEnergy are piloting such systems, aiming to demonstrate both environmental and economic benefits. Additionally, collaborations between industry and academia are accelerating the development of omics-based strain engineering and real-time process monitoring, which are expected to further enhance productivity and product specificity in the coming years.

Looking ahead, the mixotrophic microalgae biorefining sector is poised for significant growth, driven by increasing demand for sustainable bio-based products and the maturation of enabling technologies. Strategic partnerships, continued R&D investment, and supportive regulatory frameworks will be critical to translating laboratory advances into commercial-scale operations by the late 2020s.

Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of World

The global landscape for mixotrophic microalgae biorefining is evolving rapidly, with distinct regional dynamics shaping the sector’s trajectory through 2025 and beyond. This section examines the current status and near-term outlook for North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of World, focusing on industrial activity, policy drivers, and commercial initiatives.

North America remains a leading hub for microalgae innovation, driven by robust R&D infrastructure and supportive government programs. The United States, in particular, is home to several pioneering companies and demonstration-scale facilities exploring mixotrophic cultivation for biofuels, nutraceuticals, and specialty chemicals. Organizations such as Algenol Biotech LLC and Qualitas Health are actively developing integrated biorefinery models, leveraging mixotrophic growth to enhance productivity and product diversity. The U.S. Department of Energy continues to fund advanced algae projects, with a focus on improving yields and reducing costs. Canada is also investing in microalgae valorization, with companies like Pond Technologies Holdings Inc. scaling up mixotrophic systems for carbon capture and high-value co-products.

Europe is characterized by strong regulatory support for sustainable bioproducts and a vibrant network of public-private partnerships. The European Union’s Green Deal and bioeconomy strategies are catalyzing investments in algae-based biorefineries, with a growing emphasis on circularity and resource efficiency. Companies such as AlgaEnergy (Spain) and Microphyt (France) are advancing mixotrophic cultivation platforms, targeting markets in food, feed, and cosmetics. The region’s focus on decarbonization and renewable feedstocks is expected to accelerate the deployment of commercial-scale mixotrophic biorefineries through 2025, particularly in countries like Germany, the Netherlands, and France.

Asia-Pacific is emerging as a dynamic growth region, propelled by rising demand for sustainable ingredients and government-backed initiatives. China, Japan, and South Korea are investing heavily in microalgae R&D, with a focus on food security, aquaculture, and bioplastics. Chinese companies such as Fuqing King Dnarmsa Spirulina Co., Ltd. are expanding production capacity and exploring mixotrophic processes to boost yields and diversify product portfolios. In India, public research institutes are collaborating with industry to develop cost-effective mixotrophic cultivation systems for rural and industrial applications.

Rest of World regions, including Latin America and the Middle East, are at earlier stages of adoption but show growing interest in microalgae biorefining for climate mitigation and resource recovery. Brazil and Israel, for example, are piloting mixotrophic systems for wastewater treatment and biofertilizer production, leveraging local biomass resources and favorable climates.

Across all regions, the outlook for 2025 and the following years is shaped by ongoing advances in strain development, process integration, and market diversification. As regulatory frameworks mature and commercial partnerships expand, mixotrophic microalgae biorefining is poised for broader adoption, with North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific leading the way in scaling up sustainable, high-value bioproducts.

Future Outlook: Opportunities, Challenges, and Strategic Recommendations

The future of mixotrophic microalgae biorefining in 2025 and the coming years is shaped by a convergence of technological advances, market drivers, and evolving sustainability imperatives. Mixotrophic cultivation—where microalgae utilize both light (autotrophy) and organic carbon sources (heterotrophy)—is increasingly recognized for its potential to enhance biomass productivity and diversify product portfolios, including biofuels, nutraceuticals, animal feed, and specialty chemicals.

Key industry players are scaling up mixotrophic systems to address the dual challenges of cost and yield. AlgaEnergy, a global leader in microalgae biotechnology, has expanded its production capacity and is actively developing mixotrophic processes to optimize yields of high-value compounds such as astaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids. Similarly, Cyanotech Corporation in Hawaii is leveraging hybrid cultivation strategies to improve the efficiency of its spirulina and astaxanthin production, targeting both food and nutraceutical markets.

The integration of mixotrophic biorefining with waste valorization is gaining momentum. Companies like Fermentalg are exploring the use of industrial byproducts and CO2 streams as feedstocks, aligning with circular economy principles and reducing overall production costs. This approach is expected to become more prevalent as regulatory frameworks in the EU and Asia incentivize carbon capture and resource recovery.

Despite these advances, several challenges persist. The cost and availability of suitable organic substrates remain a bottleneck, particularly for large-scale operations. There is also a need for robust process control systems to manage the complex metabolic dynamics of mixotrophic cultures. Industry consortia, such as the European Algae Biomass Association, are actively promoting collaborative R&D to address these technical hurdles and standardize best practices.

Looking ahead, the sector is poised for significant growth, driven by increasing demand for sustainable ingredients and the maturation of integrated biorefinery models. Strategic recommendations for stakeholders include:

  • Investing in feedstock diversification, including the use of agro-industrial residues and municipal waste streams.
  • Strengthening partnerships between technology developers, end-users, and policymakers to accelerate commercialization.
  • Prioritizing automation and digitalization to enhance process efficiency and scalability.
  • Engaging with industry bodies like the European Algae Biomass Association to shape regulatory frameworks and market standards.

In summary, mixotrophic microalgae biorefining is entering a pivotal phase, with 2025 marking a transition from pilot-scale innovation to broader industrial adoption. Success will depend on overcoming substrate and process challenges, leveraging circular economy opportunities, and fostering cross-sector collaboration.

Sources & References

1st International Congress on Algae Biotechnolgy | ICAB 2025

ByQuinn Parker

Quinn Parker is a distinguished author and thought leader specializing in new technologies and financial technology (fintech). With a Master’s degree in Digital Innovation from the prestigious University of Arizona, Quinn combines a strong academic foundation with extensive industry experience. Previously, Quinn served as a senior analyst at Ophelia Corp, where she focused on emerging tech trends and their implications for the financial sector. Through her writings, Quinn aims to illuminate the complex relationship between technology and finance, offering insightful analysis and forward-thinking perspectives. Her work has been featured in top publications, establishing her as a credible voice in the rapidly evolving fintech landscape.

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