Food and drug industry applications of microalgae Spirulina platensis: A review

Spirulina platensis is a photosynthetic, blue-green, spiral- or bulb-shaped microalgae. Due to the presence of minerals, vitamins, pigments (carotenes, phycocyanin and chlorophyll) proteins (55%-70%), carbohydrates (15%-25%), and essential fatty acids (5%-8%), it has been used as a nutritional supplement for decades. NASA successfully employed it as a nutritional supplement for astronauts on space missions then its popularity was increased. The chemical composition of Spirulina, which is rich in vitamins, minerals, phenolics, vital fatty acids, amino acids, and pigments, can be beneficial to human health when incorporated into meals. The pharmacological effects include antibacterial, anticancer, metalloprotective, immune-stimulating, and antioxidant. It modulates immunological activities and possesses anti-inflammatory qualities by preventing mast cells from releasing histamine. Due to its high quantity of protein, carbohydrate, lipid, vital amino and fatty acids, dietary minerals and vitamins, Spirulina exerts the abovementioned benefits. In this review, up-to-date and possible biological aspects, patents applied on Spirulina and heights of confirmation are addressed, and the extent of current and future exploration is also explored.

Automated summary

Spirulina platensis is a blue-green, spiral- or bulb-shaped microalgae with high nutritional value. It has been used as a nutritional supplement for astronauts and has various pharmacological effects, such as antibacterial, anticancer, metalloprotective, immune-stimulating, and antioxidant activities.