- In collaboration with nutritionist Dr Gérald Langel -
Discover our Organic Spirulina: the whole microalga, rich in iron and protein, and laboratory-tested.
Wondering what makes spirulina so unique and so good for your health? Curious about what goes into this age-old alga that everyone is talking about? You’ve come to the right place! In this article, we take an in-depth look at spirulina and its composition.
Spirulina is renowned for its rich content of essential nutrients. It contains a wide variety of nutrients, including minerals, protein, fats, carbohydrates and certain vitamins.
To explore the components of this blue-green alga further, we will look at:
- The origins of this super alga
- Why choosing the right growing location matters
- The composition of classic spirulina and its enriched varieties
Let’s dive into the world of this superfood together to understand its detailed composition and its benefits for our bodies. You will then be able to make the most of its positive effects on your health. Ready to uncover the mysteries of spirulina and learn more about its composition? Let’s go!
Spirulina and its origins
Before looking at what spirulina is made of, it helps to understand where it comes from. This microalga is one of the oldest living microorganisms known on our planet. This blue-green alga fascinates with a history and origins that stretch far back in time.
First encounters with the super alga
The history of spirulina began some 3 billion years ago. Invisible to the naked eye, this microalga belongs to the Cyanophyceae family, a freshwater blue-green alga with exceptional properties. One of spirulina’s remarkable features is its demanding natural habitat. It thrives in warm, brackish and alkaline waters. These conditions, rich in oxygen, carbon dioxide and sodium bicarbonate, encourage its growth and rapid proliferation.
The particular characteristics of these waters prevent other microorganisms from proliferating, which ensures the purity of this super alga. Spirulina is found in lakes in the tropical belt around the world. This is the case in the Andes, in Ecuador, where the earliest traces of human consumption of spirulina have also been found.
Discovering the properties of spirulina
Ancient peoples of Latin America used spirulina as a vital food supplement in times of scarcity. Traditionally, it was harvested from the surface of lakes and then made into dried cakes before being eaten.
It was not until the 1960s that the microalga attracted scientific attention. The French botanist Jean Léonard identified the species Spirulina platensis, bringing to light this spiral alga of remarkable nutritional value. Studies on spirulina have revealed an exceptional composition, rich in protein, vitamins and essential minerals. This is how this super alga earned its nickname of “blue gold”, a true natural treasure for health. The benefits of spirulina are so numerous that it has become the food supplement par excellence all over the world.
How the growing location affects the composition of spirulina
Where spirulina is grown has a major influence on its composition. The environmental conditions in which it grows affect its nutritional value, its purity and its health benefits.
That is why, at Algorigin, we grow our spiral algae in unspoilt locations where the purity of the environment is guaranteed. Located in Ecuador, in the Andes mountains, our farm enjoys ideal growing conditions. The pure air and crystal-clear water that flow there come from the snowmelt of the Cayambe volcano. The sunshine and temperatures are ideal for the growth of these super algae.
Our patented production process ensures that the microalgae keep their structure intact and retain all their essential components. We use an innovative low-temperature drying process. Unlike older techniques, it keeps the spirulina’s cell membrane fully intact.
The nutritional composition of organic spirulina
Initially, it was the high protein content of blue-green algae that made them so sought-after. But after carrying out further research, scientists realised that these super algae had many nutritional qualities. Let’s take a closer look at the composition of spirulina to discover the nutrients it contains.
Protein, an essential component of spirulina
Protein is crucial for our bodies to function optimally. It contributes to the maintenance of muscle mass and of bone structure. Protein also plays an essential role in cell renewal.
The composition of spirulina stands out for its high content of high-quality protein. On average, it contains around 65% protein. This super alga has a higher protein content than fish, meat or soya, making it one of the richest plant sources of protein. More specifically, 5 g of spirulina can provide up to 3.25 g of protein. In fact, spirulina is 3 times more concentrated in protein than beef.
The quality of a protein is measured by its amino acid content. This blue-green alga contains the 8 essential amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own.
The vitamin content of spirulina
Spirulina contains many vitamins, but it is vitamin B12 that is present in large quantities. Also known as cobalamin, this vitamin plays an essential role in:
- The formation of red blood cells and haemoglobin
- Immunity
- The functioning of the nervous system
- DNA synthesis.
Taking 5 g of spirulina provides around 0.72 μg of vitamin B12. That is approximately 29% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin B12.
The importance of vitamin B12 for the body cannot be overstated. It is particularly important for vegetarians, as it is found mainly in animal products.
Phycocyanin, the very heart of microalgae
Phycocyanin is a natural pigment found in the nutritional composition of organic spirulina. This pigment is responsible for the characteristic blue colour of these super algae. The importance of phycocyanin lies in its many beneficial properties for the body.
First of all, this pigment acts as a powerful antioxidant and strengthens the immune system. The presence of phycocyanin in this microalga makes it a valuable food supplement for supporting health.
If you would like to learn more about phycocyanin, this article may be useful.
The trace elements found in the super alga
Spirulina contains many minerals and trace elements, including iron. Iron is a particularly essential mineral for human health. It is involved in many vital functions, including the production of haemoglobin in red blood cells. Iron intake also reduces the risk of anaemia. This blue alga contains more iron than meat and lentils.
5 g of spirulina provides around 5.25 mg of iron, which is approximately 38% of the recommended daily intake. Organic spirulina tablets are therefore a significant source of iron. However, their iron content is not as high as that of Spirulina Iron.
Percentage composition of classic spirulina:
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The fats in spirulina
The fats in the composition of spirulina make it a balanced food supplement. Fats perform several important functions in the human body. They are needed for the structure and proper functioning of cells and for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Fats are also an essential source of energy, providing more calories per gram than protein or carbohydrates.
A 5 g serving of organic spirulina granules provides 0.32 g of fat. What’s more, the fats in this microalga are mainly fatty acids that are good for your health. They contain none of the harmful fats that could adversely affect blood cholesterol levels.
Spirulina, a significant source of carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are an essential part of our diet, providing the energy our bodies need to function properly. The composition of organic spirulina includes a moderate amount of carbohydrates, which contributes to its overall nutritional balance. Carbohydrates make up around 20% of spirulina. For example, 5 g of the microalga contains 0.89 g of carbohydrates.
These carbohydrates are mainly in the form of complex polysaccharides. These super algae contain no sorbitol or mannitol, which raise blood sugar levels. The carbohydrates in this blue-green alga therefore have beneficial effects on digestive and metabolic health.
Composition of classic spirulina per 10 tablets:
The composition of Algorigin’s enriched spirulina
At Algorigin, we have developed enriched spirulina to meet a range of specific nutritional needs. We have combined the traditional benefits of these super algae with carefully selected nutrients. This makes them supplements of choice for anyone looking for a targeted nutritional intake, in particular to:
- Boost energy and immunity
- Address hair problems
- Make up for iron deficiency
- …
This enriched spirulina is perfectly suited to the needs of athletes, women, vegans, older people and children. Let’s take a closer look at these enriched superfoods and their composition.
Spirulina Iron and its composition
Organic Spirulina Iron is a specific variety of classic spirulina. It is particularly interesting for its high iron content, higher than that of red meat or spinach. With around 13 mg of iron per 2 g of spirulina, it makes a significant contribution to your daily iron intake.
Iron plays a crucial role in the formation of haemoglobin in red blood cells. It is an indispensable nutrient for preventing anaemia and reducing tiredness and fatigue. This iron-enriched superfood is therefore ideal for people with increased iron requirements, such as:
- Pregnant women
- Women in general, because of menstruation
- People suffering from anaemia
- And vegetarians or vegans.
The composition of Spirulina Iron also includes a balanced mix of protein, fats and carbohydrates. So, as well as addressing your iron deficiency, you benefit from an optimal intake of these nutrients. Don’t hesitate to order Spirulina Iron to make up for your iron deficiency while maintaining nutritional balance.
Composition of Spirulina Iron per 4 tablets:
What Spirulina Zinc is made of
Spirulina Zinc offers a concentrated, natural source of zinc, as well as a full range of essential nutrients. With around 5.28 mg of zinc per gram of spirulina, it is a significant source of this nutrient. This covers more than 53% of daily zinc requirements.
Spirulina Zinc can help to improve the condition of your skin and promote a more radiant complexion. People prone to brittle nails can also benefit from this supplement to strengthen their nails.
This zinc-enriched supplement can be beneficial for people who want to promote healthy, vibrant hair. Zinc plays a crucial role in the health of the scalp and hair follicles.
Composition of Spirulina Zinc per 2 tablets:
The nutritional composition of Spirulina Immuno+
Spirulina Immuno+ stands out for its nutritional composition, rich in a range of essential nutrients to strengthen the immune system. In particular, it contains zinc as well as vitamins C and D.
With 276 mg of vitamin C per 2.05 g of spirulina, it provides around 345% of the recommended daily intake. As a powerful antioxidant, vitamin C helps to strengthen the immune system.
It also contains a significant amount of vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and for strengthening the immune system. 2.05 g of spirulina contains 7.35 μg of vitamin D, which is 147% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin D. This makes Spirulina Immuno+ the ideal supplement for anyone looking to strengthen their immune system naturally.
Composition of Spirulina Immuno+ per 3 tablets:
The composition of Spirulina Maca
Spirulina Maca is a unique combination of 50 % maca root and 50% spiral alga. This combination offers a balanced nutritional profile that is good for your health. It contains a mix of protein, fats, carbohydrates and iron, along with the benefits associated with maca.
Maca root is known for its health-promoting properties, particularly for boosting energy and vitality. Not convinced of the benefits of maca for your health? This article looks at the reasons to take maca root.
The fats and carbohydrates in Spirulina Maca help to provide energy every day. The protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass. As for iron, it contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. All in all, it offers many advantages for boosting your energy every day.
Composition of Spirulina Maca per 10 tablets:
The nutrients in Spirulina Elixir
Spirulina Elixir combines a wide range of essential nutrients to promote optimal recovery after physical exertion. This drink brings together protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamin B12 and phycocyanin to support fast, effective recovery.
Spirulina Elixir is particularly well suited to athletes and people who do intense physical activity. The fats and carbohydrates in the Elixir provide a much-needed source of energy after exercise. Vitamin B12 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and to normal red blood cell formation. What’s more, its liquid form makes it practical and easy to take during sporting activities.
Composition of Spirulina Elixir per 20 ml:
Spirulina: the supplement packed with valuable nutrients
By analysing the composition of spirulina, we have discovered the hidden treasure trove of nutrients it holds. Its richness in protein, carbohydrates, fats, iron and vitamin B12 makes it an essential superfood.
Remember that the quality of this blue-green alga and the way it is grown have a strong influence on its nutritional properties. So choose spirulina grown in protected areas and in pure water. Always opt for reliable, verified sources to get the most out of its benefits.
At Algorigin, we use patented production processes that guarantee the purity and integrity of our products. This is what gives our spirulina its reputation for quality. So go ahead and choose the supplement you want from our shop and take it with complete confidence. Make this super alga part of your diet and enjoy its full benefits to maintain your overall well-being.
