| dc.description.abstract | Microalgae are of great academic and commercial interest due to their valuable biotechnological and agricultural applications. Arthrospira platensis - commonly known as spirulina - is a species of microalgae that has been used by humans for hundreds of years, primarily as a food source. It is one of the most nutritious foods on earth due to its favorable macronutrient profile and high concentration of bioactive compounds. Of particular interest is PC, a blue light harvesting pigment of spirulina which is highly valuable due to its pharmaceutical properties, among other applications. This project details the processing of spirulina from two perspectives: preparing a high-value PC extract using fresh biomass as feedstock and incorporating whole spirulina biomass into marketable food products. Due to the difference in required approaches, this report is divided into two parts. The first part, presented in the format of a research article, evaluates several described methods of extracting PC from spirulina biomass and identified the most appropriate methods to analyze intracellular PC content and extract it on a commercial scale. An attempt to increase PC accumulation in culture was also made, and the outcome was evaluated using developed protocols. The second part, presented as a product portfolio, details the formulation of five novel food products that contain fresh spirulina biomass. In two products, preliminary shelf-stability tests were performed. Sensorial and nutritional analysis of each product was performed, alongside suggestions for further development, preservation and marketing. The project was conducted in collaboration with a commercial producer of fresh spirulina biomass, Alga.farm Rotterdam. The findings of this report can be used by the host company to further valorize their product, be it as an extract or incorporated into complete food products. This could facilitate company growth by diversifying their product portfolio and enable consumers greater access to the associated health benefits of consuming spirulina and PC. | |
