Applications of Algae in the Production of Single‐Cell Proteins and Pigments with High Relevance in Industry

Abstract

Algae serve as a source for diverse types of chlorophyll. It is a major constituent of the ecosystem, specifically marine and freshwater habitats. Nutritionally, algae have been established to have high protein content when compared to conventional sources of protein. In industry, biotechnology tools have been used to produce many nutritional supplements from microalgae. Also, microbial dried cells or biomass, also known as single-cell protein (SCP), were isolated from microalgae like Chlorella, Spirulina , and Dunaliella , which are the most common ones. The supplements produced from these algae have nutraceutical potential for diverse health-related issues. The biomass consists of vitamins, lipids, minerals, carbohydrates, and proteins; and its cells also produce some amino acids useful for animal and human consumption. This chapter addresses the production of SCP from microalgae and its application in the diet, along with highlighting some beneficial pigments, like astaxanthin, fucoxanthin, carotenoid, etc., derived from algae and their commercial application.