Microalgae as a new source of bioactive compounds in food supplements

Microalgae contain several bioactive compounds that can supplement the nutritional and energy needs of the population. The biochemical composition of microalgae can be manipulated by altering the culture conditions and environmental stress to induce the microorganisms to produce high concentrations of a biocompound of interest. In addition, microalgae do not require arable land and can be grown in regions where land use change is not a concern. Thus, the present work is a review of the biotechnological and biochemical potential of microalgae in food, wherein the main functional constituent compounds are in the biomass. The biological effects of these bioactive substances and possible applications for food products are also discussed.