Extraction, Properties, and Applications of Bioactive Compounds Obtained from Microalgae.

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Nutritional Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Rising global population necessitates novel food sources.
• Microalgae are aquatic photosynthetic organisms rich in bioactive compounds.
• Microalgae consumption is historically recognized for nutritional value and health benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review compounds of alimentary interest in microalgae.
• To describe various energy-assisted extraction techniques.
• To highlight challenges and future research directions in microalgae nutrition.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of microalgae nutritional compounds.
• Analysis of extraction techniques including heat, supercritical-fluid, microwave, ultrasound, enzymes, electric field, and high hydrostatic pressure.
• Identification of key challenges in cost reduction and extraction optimization.

Main Results:

• Substantial evidence supports the nutritional quality and functional elements of microalgae.
• Various bioactive compounds of alimentary interest are present in microalgae.
• Diverse energy-assisted extraction methods exist, each with specific applications.

Conclusions:

• Microalgae represent a promising food source with significant nutritional potential.
• Optimizing microalgae cultivation costs and extraction techniques are critical for broader application.
• Further research into microalgae promises the discovery of additional health benefits and nutritional uses.