Algomed® Spirulina | An Introduction to the Nutrient-Rich Microalgae

Spirulina is one of the best-known algae in the superfood sector and has been causing a stir in the health world for some time now. Perhaps you've heard of it and are wondering: What is Spirulina? In this article, we'll give you an easy-to-understand overview of the origin, effects, and uses of this special microalga.

What is Spirulina?

Spirulina is not actually an alga in the classical sense, but rather a cyanobacterium – colloquially, however, it is still referred to as a blue-green "microalga." Spirulina alga (scientifically Arthrospira platensis) naturally grows in warm, highly alkaline lakes in subtropical to tropical regions. Spirulina has been used for centuries: For example, the Aztecs harvested spirulina from Lake Texcoco in Mexico, and in Central Africa, the Kanembu people by Lake Chad processed spirulina into nutritious flatbreads. Today, spirulina is valued worldwide as a dietary supplement and is often mentioned in the same breath as chlorella alga – we will deliberately omit a comparison of the two here, as this topic will fill a separate article.

Cultivation and Farming

In the past, as described above, spirulina was mainly harvested wild from natural lakes. Nowadays, it is predominantly cultivated on special farms to ensure consistent quality and purity. Spirulina algae thrive best in shallow basins with warm water temperatures (around 34°C for optimal growth) and under a constant supply of light and carbon dioxide. The water is kept highly basic, which creates a germ-free environment. In open facilities – often in Asia – the greenish water is bubbled through long outdoor basins. Our Algomed® Spirulina is cultivated in Northern Germany: In cooperation with the German Algae Cooperative, the algae are cultivated in protected greenhouses under the strictest quality standards. This controlled cultivation ensures that no undesirable substances enter the final product, and the short transport routes in Germany guarantee freshness and sustainability. After harvesting, spirulina is gently dried (at approx. 40°C) and further processed without additives – this way, the valuable ingredients are best preserved.

Nutrients: What's in Spirulina?

Spirulina is characterized by an exceptionally dense nutrient composition. Dried spirulina powder consists of about 60% protein – making it richer in protein than most meat or plant products. This protein is high-quality because it provides all eight essential amino acids that our body cannot produce itself. In addition to proteins, spirulina contains numerous vitamins and minerals. Iron and vitamin K are particularly noteworthy: just 6 grams of spirulina cover about 18% of the daily iron requirement and 40% of the vitamin K requirement for an adult. Provitamin A (beta-carotene) is also abundantly present – spirulina provides more beta-carotene per gram than carrots. Additionally, spirulina contains B vitamins (such as B1, B2, B3), magnesium, potassium, and other micronutrients in relevant quantities. The microalga is also known for its high chlorophyll content, which gives it its intense blue-green color.

All these nutrients make spirulina a true nutrient booster. Nevertheless, a balanced diet overall is important – spirulina can complement it meaningfully, but not replace it.

Effects of Spirulina Nutrients

The positive effects of spirulina on the body are primarily linked to its nutrient content. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has officially approved several health claims – these show how spirulina's ingredients can support our body.

• Iron contributes to normal oxygen transport in the body.
• Iron contributes to normal energy metabolism.
• Iron contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
• Iron contributes to normal cognitive function.
• Iron contributes to the normal function of the immune system.
• Vitamin K contributes to normal blood clotting.
• Vitamin K contributes to the maintenance of normal bones.
• Proteins contribute to the growth of muscle mass.
• Proteins contribute to the maintenance of normal bones.

As you can see, spirulina provides nutrients that, according to EFSA, perform important functions in the body.

You have now gained an initial insight into the world of spirulina. In future articles, we will delve deeper into specific aspects – such as the comparison of spirulina vs. chlorella or further effects and studies. For now, you are well informed about what spirulina is and how you can use this nutrient-rich microalga for yourself. Enjoy trying it out and stay healthy!