The use of microalgae in the production of functional foods

Background and Aim : Microalage are microorganisms with a singular biochemical compositionincluding several biologically active compounds with proven pharmacological activities such asanticancer-antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities among others. These properties makemicroalgae an interesting natural resource to be used as a functional ingredient, as well as in theprevention and treatment of diseases, or cosmetic formulations.Methods : Utilisation of microalgae in multiple scopes has been growing in various industriesranging from harnessing renewable energy to exploitation of high value products. Moreover thiswork discuss the advantage-potential new beneficial strains-applications-limitations-research gapsand future prospect of microalgae in industry.Results : The interest in microalgae for industrial applications has been growing in the last decadedue to the vast collection of high value biologically active compounds produced by this group.These bioactives are associated with several pharmacological properties, which have beendemonstrated to promote beneficial effects for human health.Conclusion : In conclusion, it is vital that more efforts should be taken in developingmultifunctional range of products, that are affordable and is inter-related with nutritional sciencethat could cater for even more health benefits comparatively to the ones in current market. Thesefindings would bring much more insights into the vast potentials of microalgae-derivedmetabolites that remain to be explored and assessed. Further roadmap towards enhancingphycoeconomy is recommended by uplifting the current biological and technology process bytaking into account on sustainability and environmental benefits.

کلیدواژه ها:

microalgae ، bioactive compounds ، functional food ، cosmeceuticals