Microalgae as an alternative to oil crops for edible oils and animal feed

Oil crops account for approximately 23% of the world's crop lands and are mainly used to produce animal feeds and edible oils. Livestock production is expected to double between 2017 and 2050, which would require significant oil crop expansion to meet feed demands. Alternatively, microalgae have significantly higher productivities and have been shown to produce desirable protein and lipids concentrations. This review investigates the feasibility of substituting common oil crops with microalgae on a nutritional basis. Microalgae have been shown to produce protein (13.3-58% dry weight, including all essential amino acids) and lipid fractions (2.04-80% dry weight, including commonly deficient long-chain omega-3 fatty acids and other essential fatty acids) at levels much higher than oilseeds, while also providing a source of essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, the inclusion of bioactive compounds, including antimicrobials and antioxidants, could further improve the quality of microalgal animal feeds and edible oils.

Automated summary

This review investigates the feasibility of substituting common oil crops with microalgae on a nutritional basis. Microalgae have been shown to produce protein and lipid fractions at levels much higher than oilseeds, while also providing a source of essential vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds.