Algae--The Planet’s Most Ancient Life

Microalgae, the category most often used for nutraceuticals, are tiny photosynthetic organisms similar to plants. They contain chlorophyll and feed themselves through photosynthesis, taking energy from the sun and converting it to sugars and proteins. Their home in nature’s waterways, often under intense conditions, have caused algae to evolve some very powerful health benefits.


PHYCOCYAIN(BLUE SPIRULINA)

Phycocyanin(Blue spirlina) is a blue pigment derived from blue-green algae. Along with carotenoids, it’s one of the most potent algal pigments, playing an important role in photosynthesis and assisting with chlorophyll functions. In terms of health benefits, phycocyanin has:

• shown strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
• has been linked to preventing neurological diseases

As a commodity, phycocyanin has been gaining notoriety as a product with interesting market potential. Due to its natural fluorescence, it’s used in medicine and genetics as a tracer, and as a key element of UV-protected clothing.

It’s most promising usage is a natural dye for the food industry. More conscious consumers and regulatory changes are turning up the pressure for brands to move beyond synthetic dyes. Pure blue is notoriously difficult to find in nature, making it difficult to farm or harvest for commercial purposes. As the only FDA-approved natural blue colourant, Phycocyanin is rapidly becoming a hot commodity in categories ranging from smoothies and yogurts to confectionary and cocktails.
 

CHLORELLA POWDER

Chlorella is a green, freshwater algae (Chlorella vulgaris) that has gained a reputation as a powerful superfood. Full of amino acids, peptides, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, Chlorella is a supplement with wide-ranging potential health benefits.

• Chlorella is a great source of protein (50–60% depending on the growing conditions and strain) and contains all nine essential amino acids.
• Very high levels of chlorophyll, which can help protect the body against infections.
• Contains carotenoid antioxidants with positive anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
• Positive results in treating hypertension.

Consumer and industry awareness is increasing as more and more compelling research is published around the benefits of this algae-based supplement. Market size has been growing steadily with continued growth expected in both short and medium term.

Pure Biotechnology supplies top-quality chlorella, with organic, non-GMO, and other certifications. 
 

SPIRULINA POWDER

Spirulina, often referred to as blue-green algae, is a single cell plant-like organism that grows in both fresh and saltwater. Spirulina was consumed by the ancient Aztecs and today has become well-known as a high-nutrient, low-calorie food that contains a lot of nutrition in a small amount of powder.

Full of protein, iron, magnesium, and vitamins B2 and B3, spirulina has been shown to have a wide-array of health benefits:

• A 2018 review study found that spirulina significantly lowered people’s fasting blood glucose levels.
• This 2016 systematic review and meta-analysis shows that taking spirulina supplements may positively impact blood lipids, and significantly reduces total cholesterol.
• Doses of 4.5 grams per day has been shown to reduce blood pressure.
• A 2013 study showed that blue-green algae may play a role in preventing heart disease, potentially due to their cholesterol-lowering, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative effects.

According to recent reports, the global spirulina market size hit $346 million in 2018, and is projected to reach $779 million by 2026, growing at 10.6% annually. These figures match the trend in popularity of powdered supplements in general and spirulina in particular.