Spirulina

Other Name(s):

Arthrospira platensis; Arthrospira fusiformis; Arthrospira maxima

Spirulina is blue-green algae which grows naturally in high alkaline lakes in Mexico and Central Africa. It’s able to thrive in environments where other algae types would struggl

Is Spirulina Faithful to Nature?

Depends.

Spirulina is a natural, plant ingredient with amazing nutritional value.

Benefits: Why is Spirulina used?

Antioxidant

Spirulina contains the antioxidant compound phycocyanin

High in Protein

Spirulina is, according to the USDA, about 57% protein

Superfoods

Spirulina's high nutritional profile have made it a candidate for an efficient nutrient source for astronauts.

Overall Wellbeing

Due to the plethora of nutrients in spirulina it is said to be able to boost the immune system and increase energy levels.

Learn more about Spirulina:

On the Shelf: Which Products Use Spirulina?

Spirulina can be found on store shelves as single ingredient powders and pressed into health supplement tablets. It’s also used extensively in green-powder type nutritional supplements.

Production: How is Spirulina Made?

Spirulina is cultivated in shallow ponds where minerals and salts are added to provide an optimal growing environment. Once the water is thick with the algae, it is passed through filters to collect the biomass. After this, excess water is pressed out and the plant material is left in the sun to dry out.

Interesting Fact: Spirulina

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) uses a multifaceted approach to determine the safety of food ingredients. They take into account potential contaminants, concerns around the production of the food ingredient, persistent pollution, bioaccumulation and much more.

It’s been widely claimed that spirulina is a plant-based source of vitamin B12, however the USDA nutrition database reports that spirulina is assumed to contain 0 µg. Research indicates that pseudovitamin B12 is present in spirulina. This molecule is very similar in chemical structure to true vitamin B12 but can’t be used by the body and doesn’t have any of the same health benefits