An overview of microalgae industrial phycology

Microalgae, Chlorella , production for health foods has been an established industry in the Far East for over twenty five years. Since the mid-1970's, commercial Spirulina production has been carried out, first in Mexico, and since then by several companies, including two located in the United States. Spirulina is sold not only in the health food trade, but is also used in the extraction of food coloring agents and aquaculture feeds. Since the early 1980's, Dunaliella has been produced in the U.S., Australia, and Israel for its beta-carotene content. Microalgae are also being produced at a small scale for aquaculture feeds and several companies are developing processes for the controlled cultivation of microalgae in bioreactors for specialty products, including essential fatty acids, pigments, diagnostic reagents, etc. The commercial applications of microalgae extend to wastewater treatment, including heavy metals removal.