Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 6, 2026

Quantification of Heavy Metals and Other Inorganic Contaminants on the Productivity of Microalgae
Published on: July 10, 2015
Elemental Composition and Variability in Spirulina-derived Nutraceuticals: Implications for Nutritional Relevance and
María Del Pilar Balverdi1, Silvina Natalia Gómez2, Cecilia Viviana Balverdi2
1Institute of Analytical Chemistry. Faculty of Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Pharmacy, National University of Tucumán, Ayacucho 471, T4000INI, Tucumán, Argentina. maria.balverdi@fbqf.unt.edu.ar.
Abstract:
Spirulina is a cyanobacterium widely used in nutraceutical products; however, the presence of trace elements in spirulina-derived products has motivated the evaluation of both its nutritional contribution and potential toxicological risks. This study determined essential (Fe, Ca, Mg, Na, K, P, Mn, Cu, and Li) and toxic elements (As, Cd, and Pb) in commercially available spirulina-derived products from Argentina, including powders, capsules, and tablets. Samples were analyzed by flame and electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry and UV-Vis spectrophotometry. Among the quantified analytes, K and P were the most abundant, followed by Na, Mg, Ca, and Fe, whereas Cu was detected at lower concentrations. Li was not detected, and Mn was quantifiable in only a limited number of samples. Arsenic was below detection limits, while Cd and Pb were detected at trace levels. Powders generally exhibited higher and more homogeneous elemental concentrations than capsules and tablets, with tablets showing the lowest concentrations. Estimated nutritional contribution was evaluated assuming a standardized intake of 1 g of spirulina-derived product day⁻1. Under this intake scenario, Fe showed the highest contribution (3-4% of recommended intake), whereas the remaining elements contributed only marginally. Risk assessment based on estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), and hazard index (HI) suggested no significant non-carcinogenic risk. The analyzed products provided only a limited contribution to most daily mineral requirements while remaining associated with low estimated exposure to toxic elements.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
The Periodic Table and Organismal Elements
Periodic Table Provides Information...
The Periodic Table and Organismal Elements
Bioavailability: Overview
Essential Minerals for Bone Health
Calcium and Phosphorus
Calcium is a critical component of bones, especially in the form of calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate. Since the body cannot make calcium, it must be obtained from the diet. However, calcium cannot be absorbed from the small intestine without...
Key Elements for Plant Nutrition
Bioequivalence: Overview

