Microalgae-Derived Pigments: Sustainable Solution and Their Multifaceted Applications
摘要
Pigments are exceptionally colored substances that are used to color other materials in a variety of industries. Naturally synthesized pigments are in greater demand, and circular bioeconomy strategies can include their manufacturing. Microalgae, macroalgae, cyanobacteria, plants, and animals produce natural pigments. Microalgae, photosynthetic microorganisms, are becoming a key sustainable source of natural pigments, providing an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic dyes. These pigments, including carotenoids, phycobiliproteins, and chlorophylls, are highly valued across industries such as food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and dietary supplements due to their bioactive properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and neuroprotective effects. Unlike synthetic pigments, which have raised safety concerns and are banned in some countries due to their potential risks to human health and food safety, microalgal pigments offer a nontoxic and noncarcinogenic solution. The cultivation of microalgae offers significant advantages, as it is not constrained by seasonal, climatic, or environmental factors and does not require arable land. These microorganisms grow rapidly, possess high pigment concentrations, and can thrive under stress, making them a highly efficient and sustainable resource. Pigments like phycocyanin, β-carotene, and astaxanthin are particularly gaining popularity for their natural, safe properties. As consumers increasingly demand natural, health-conscious products, microalgal pigments are becoming an attractive alternative, providing an environmentally responsible solution that aligns with global trends toward sustainability. Their wide-ranging applications and eco-friendly attributes position microalgae as a competitive and promising source of natural pigments in the global market.