The chemicals present in most sunscreens products such as formaldehyde-based ingredients, parabens, butylated compounds, plastic softeners or phthalates cause undesirable toxic effects in humans and the environment, leading to distressing medical issues like contact urticaria, endocrine disrupting effect, organ toxicity and even cancer. Moreover, despite the systematic use of sunscreen which is vital to prevent the harmful effects of prolonged sunlight exposure, many UV filter molecules still present high toxicity issues themselves. TARAMAR was founded in 2010 with the aim to design, develop and commercialize all natural and 100% chemical-free cosmetic products. With TARASÓL line TARAMAR will deploy to the European market the first all- natural, edible grade, marine-based based organic sunscreen with absolutely no artificial chemicals, effectively filtering UV radiation. TARASÓL is the result of years of basic research and technology transferring efforts that have led to a prototype incorporating three main innovations: a seaweed-based UV-filter with SPF; a liposome-based delivery system equipped with an open mechanism that stabilizes and releases the bioactive UV filter upon sunlight exposure; a fully natural formulation; and finally, a production process that circumvents the use of conventional preservatives and solvents. To assess the technical feasibility, we have established the tasks needed to optimization steps needed to obtain UV-filter extract with a SPF 30 or higher from seaweeds and a stable and sensitive light-activated delivery system. To ensure commercial feasibility, we have conducted an in-depth analysis of our market, including its dynamics, its environment and key players, our end users and customers, and our competitors. We have also conducted an FTO analysis and defined our value proposition. We have also designed a communication strategy. To analyse the financial risks of launching TARASÓL, we have observed different scenarios and ensure financial viability in all of them. We infer that the TARASÓL project is completely viable and feasible.
