Nutritional profiling of Chlorella salina, Dunaliella salina, and Arthrospira platensis as sustainable functional foods for human nutrition
摘要
Microalgae offer significant potential for developing functional foods and nutraceuticals due to their exceptional nutritional and health-promoting properties. This study evaluated the nutritional profiles of Chlorella salina, Dunaliella salina, and Arthrospira platensis. Protein analysis revealed high content in A. platensis (65%) and C. salina (61%), surpassing traditional sources like soybeans and pulses, making them viable solutions to protein-energy malnutrition. D. salina exhibited an elevated total ash content (8.2%), contributing to its substantial mineral composition. The nucleic acid levels in A. platensis (1.8%), D. salina (1.7%), and C. salina (1.4%) were within the safe consumption range, emphasizing their role in supporting cellular functions and overall nutritional benefits. C. salina demonstrated a superior carotenoid content (2.3%), highlighting its potential as a rich source of bioactive compounds with significant antioxidant and nutritional properties. Lipid content was low, with D. salina exhibiting reduced cholesterol levels (0.78%) and high docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 0.9%), contributing to cardiovascular health. Amino acid profiling highlighted elevated essential amino acids, with phenylalanine levels in C. salina (12.3%) and A. platensis (9.2%) exceeding FAO standards for high-quality proteins. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) dominated, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in A. platensis (0.58%) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in D. salina (0.9%), with favorable omega-6/omega-3 ratios (4.0–6.4) and balanced PUFA/SFA ratios. Compared to plant-derived oils, D. salina offers higher DHA levels, supporting omega-3 requirements for vegetarians. These attributes, combined with low atherogenic and thrombogenic indices, highlight their potential cardioprotective effects. The findings position microalgae as sustainable, nutrient-dense options for promoting human health, warranting further exploration for food and nutraceutical applications.
Graphical Abstract