Current microalgal health food R & D activities in China

Abstract

The major microalgal genera presently cultivated in China are Spirulina and Chlorella. They are initially manufactured in the form of algal biomass or extracts by the food industry. The biomass is then used for producing a variety of health products such as tablets, capsules, powder or for extracting bioactive ingredients such as beta-carotene, and phycocyanin. The algal biomass is supplemented to noodles, breads, biscuits, candies, ice cream, bean curd and other common foods as food additives so as to enhance their nutritive and health values. The extracts are mainly used to enrich liquid foods such as health drink, soft drink, tea, beer or spirits.