Milestones
Explore the Kelpak journey.
With the concept first conceived back in 1975, the Kelpak story has developed over the past five decades into a world-class enterprise, benefiting growers in over 100 countries around the globe.
The early days.
In 1975 the brown seaweed, Ecklonia maxima, is identified as having beneficial effects on plant growth. The quest begins to develop an effective cellular-level extraction technology to access its active elements
A new technology.
A pressure differential extraction process is developed without heat, freezing or chemical digestion. This later becomes the famous Cellburst® technology, preserving the natural compounds found within Ecklonia maxima.
Worldwide patents registered.
Cellburst® patents are registered internationally and the Kelpak story officially begins, initially serving the South African agricultural and home garden markets.
Commercial production begins.
Commercial manufacturing expands as the pioneering extraction technology moves from development into production, laying the foundation for decades of scientific innovation.
First thesis on Kelpak.
The first doctoral thesis on Kelpak is published by the University of KwaZulu-Natal, confirming its beneficial properties on crops.
Into the international market.
Kelpak establishes market dominance in the South African agricultural sector, with the first export markets opening in Australia and the Far East.
New application types.
Further technical refinements enhance compatibility with a wider range of spray applications as Kelpak's international presence continues to grow.
Scientifically proven.
International trialling accelerates, and Kelp Products continues to expand its distribution networks worldwide.
Exporter of the year.
Kelp Products is recognised for its continuing achievements, receiving the Western Cape Chamber of Commerce Exporter of the Year Award.
The Americas and beyond.
Kelpak establishes new markets across the Americas, positioning the brand as a leader in helping farmers on every continent achieve a better return on investment.
ISO.
Kelpak achieves ISO 9002 quality management system accreditation.
State President’s Award.
Kelp Products' export achievements are further recognised by the Department of Trade and Industry, receiving the State President's Award for Export Achievement.
Organic accreditation.
Kelpak's status as an organic agricultural input is enhanced through accreditation by the Institute of Marketecology (IMO) in Switzerland
Exporter of the year.
Kelpak's international presence grows to over 50 countries, an achievement once again recognised with the Western Cape Exporter of the Year Award.
A global agrochemical brand.
European, Australasian and South American offices are established, making Kelp Products a truly global company and Kelpak a brand recognised by farmers on every continent.
Suitable for organic production.
Kelpak achieves accreditation from BCS Öko-Garantie GmbH in Nuremberg, Germany, confirming its compatibility with organic production. Eventually this is superseded by Ecocert accreditation.
Over seventy countries.
Kelp Products broadens its distribution network to over 70 countries, firmly establishing the brand as the global leader in liquid seaweed biofertilisers.
Global research and support.
Kelp Products International is established to provide marketing, distribution, logistical and technical support to global markets.
Pollen tube growth study.
Kelp Products International's research and development team uncovers further benefits of Kelpak on pollen tube development and germination, improving fruit and nut set.
New distribution facility.
Kelp Products acquires a new shipping and distribution facility, ensuring a constant, secure supply chain as global demand for Kelpak continues to grow.
New research lab.
Kelp Products commissions an advanced research and testing lab, providing daily on-site testing and ensuring a consistent, quality end-product.
Kelpak receives CE approval.
Kelpak receives the CE Mark, recognising its approval for use as a biostimulant in the European Union.
New production facility.
Kelp Products' new 6,850m² production facility is fully commissioned, allowing the company to keep pace with increased Kelpak® demand across more than 96 countries for decades to come.
Kelpak in over 100 countries.
As of 2026 Kelpak is used and trusted by experts and growers in over 100 countries and on 6 continents.
