Overview
Spirulina extract is derived from Arthrospira platensis, a cyanobacterium cultivated in alkaline waters. Valued for its dense nutrient profile, it has been used since ancient times by Aztecs and African communities. Modern extraction techniques concentrate its bioactive compounds, including phycocyanin (a potent antioxidant) and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). As a sustainable superfood, spirulina requires minimal resources to grow, making it popular in eco-conscious industries. Its extract is available in powder, liquid, or tablet forms, tailored to industrial needs such as dietary supplements or natural colorants.
Physical and Chemical Properties
The extract’s dark green color stems from chlorophyll and phycocyanin pigments. It has a mild, seaweed-like odor and is hygroscopic, requiring airtight packaging to prevent clumping. Its protein content surpasses most plant sources, with all essential amino acids present. Phycocyanin, constituting up to 20% of the extract, exhibits fluorescent properties and radical-scavenging activity. The extract is stable at pH 6–9 but degrades under extreme heat or prolonged UV exposure. Solubility depends on processing; fine powders disperse better in water than coarse grades.
Main Applications
In nutraceuticals, spirulina extract boosts immunity and reduces oxidative stress, often formulated into capsules or protein powders. Cosmetics leverage its anti-aging and anti-inflammatory effects in serums and masks. The food industry uses it as a natural blue-green dye (E18) in candies and beverages. Animal feed formulations incorporate it to enhance livestock vitality and egg yolk pigmentation. Emerging research explores its potential in biodegradable packaging due to its film-forming properties. Functional foods, like energy bars, capitalize on its high iron content for vegan diets.
Safety and Storage
Spirulina extract is non-toxic but may contain trace heavy metals if sourced from polluted waters. Reputable suppliers provide certificates of analysis (CoA) for contaminants like microcystins. Allergic reactions are rare but possible in individuals sensitive to algae. Storage requires temperatures below 25°C (77°F) and humidity under 60%. Bulk powder should be sealed in moisture-proof bags with desiccants. Liquid extracts need refrigeration to prevent microbial growth. Shelf life typically ranges from 2–3 years for powders and 6–12 months for liquids.
B2B Procurement Guide
Buyers should prioritize suppliers with ISO 22000 or USDA Organic certifications. Key purchasing criteria include phycocyanin concentration (often 15–25%), protein content (≥60%), and absence of fillers like maltodextrin. Request batch-specific CoAs for purity and heavy metals (lead, arsenic). Bulk pricing tiers apply at quantities above 100 kg, with discounts for long-term contracts. Sample testing is recommended to assess solubility and color consistency. For cosmetics, opt for cold-processed extracts to preserve heat-sensitive compounds.
Related Manufacturers
- 主营：牛筋面、甘氨酸、白色素、螺旋藻粉现货、水苏糖、红曲黄、可可壳、海藻糖、儿茶素、干面条、食品果、精氨酸、胡萝卜、酪蛋白、磷酸氢、牛磺酸、食品bha、纤维素、茶氨酸、乳糖酶、醋酸钠、乳酸钠、黄原胶、沙棘黄、儿茶黑、黑豆红
- 主营：药食同源提取物粉、果蔬粉、三新资源食品、螺旋藻粉、天然植物提取物、小分子肽
- 主营：枸杞粉、化橘红粉、薄荷粉、螺旋藻提取物、桂圆粉、荷叶粉、鸡内金粉、樱桃粉、草莓粉、麦芽粉、干姜粉、大枣粉、枳椇子粉、桑叶粉、鱼腥草粉、杜仲叶粉、赤小豆粉、黑芝麻粉、白扁豆粉、淡竹叶粉、淡豆豉粉、覆盆子粉、高良姜粉、火麻仁粉、栀子粉、蛹虫草粉
- 主营：厚朴粉、刺梨粉、富里酸、可可脂、洋蓟酸、热感剂、西洋参、蛋白粉、樱花粉、化妆品、山奈酚、拐枣粉、全蝎粉、灯乙素、蚯蚓粉、泽泻醇、耐冬粉、红茶粉、栀子蓝、藻蓝素、真菌粉、着色剂、香菇肽、荔枝核、淫羊藿