Microalgae in human nutrition: Are there reasonable future prospects? [21.05.19]
Chlorella, Spirullina and AFA algae: Microalgae are popular superfoods have long since found their way into health food stores. However, their exceptional nutrient profile and alternative breeding methods could make them much more than just a short-lived food trend. Microalgae could serve as a sustainable source of nutrients in order to meet the needs of a growing world population. In this overview article, Hohenheim scientists present the possible application and potentials of microalgae.
https://pixabay.com/de/photos/spirulina-alge-pflanzenproteine-1829077/
Publication
Neumann, Ulrike; Bischoff, Stephan (2018): Microalgae in human nutrition: Reasonable future prospects? In: Aktuel Ernahrungsmed 43 (02), S. 102–110. DOI: 10.1055/a-0595-6520.
Abstract
Microalgae are microscopic small photosynthetic organisms found in aquatic environments. They contain a variety of nutrients, including proteins, carbohydrates, carotenoids, vitamins, minerals and fatty acids. Nowadays, especially the green algae Chlorella and the cyanobacterium Arthrospira are found in food.
The growing world population and limited farmland will lead to even greater food shortages in the next few years. For this reason, microalgae have been in the focus of science in recent years. In addition to a good nutrient profile, they are not dependent on agricultural land, but can be bred in ponds or photobioreactors.
However, microalgae are still poorly distributed in the human diet. This could be because so far only a few of the over 200,000 species are approved for human consumption. Furthermore, especially the taste changes, which are associated with an increased microalgae content, and the high production costs play a major role.
Nonetheless, microalgae contain a variety of bioactive components that have potential health benefits. In addition to immunomodulatory and anti-oxidative effects, they have prebiotic, anti-viral and detoxifying effects. In addition, microalgae are a vegan source of omega-3 fatty acids, which could help protect fish as a resource.
Microalgae have great potential as a sustainable food with macro and micronutrients, as well as health-promoting nutraceuticals that can provide positive added value to human health. However, research on them is still in its infancy and the near future will tell if they will continue to be an integral part of our diet in the future.
