Journal of Nutrition & Food Sciences
Open Access

Abstract

Evaluation of Microalgae for use as Nutraceuticals and Nutritional Supplements

West M. Bishop and Heidi M. Zubeck

As proper nourishment is a growing concern with increasing world populations, sustainable sources of nutritional value are needed. Due to the diverse nutritional components algae can produce and concentrate, along with their simple and rapid growth characteristics, these autotrophic organisms are exceedingly desired for use in nutraceuticals and nutritional supplements. Many types of algae have documented health benefits from strengthening the immune system to fighting cancer and heart disease. Information presented in this article was mined from quality, peer-reviewed published literature, technical reports and books. This review evaluates the use of Chlorella, Dunaliella, Haematococcus, Aphanizomenon, and Spirulina as nutraceuticals and nutritional supplements, in terms of production, nutritional components, and documented health benefits.