Spirulina as a sustainable functional ingredient: nutrient density, bioactives, and food applications (opens in new tab)

The growing demand for environmentally friendly, functional food sources underscores the importance of nutrient-rich alternatives. Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis), with its high protein content and rich micronutrient profile, has emerged as a promising candidate for this purpose. This review systematically evaluates the chemical composition, bioactive components, and potential health benefits relevant to food applications, drawing on peer-reviewed studies from 2015–2025. Spirulina biomass i...