Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods from Algae: Formulation and Health Benefits

Algae are a large and diverse group of autotrophic photosynthetic organisms in the aquatic environment that includes eukaryotic multicellular algae and unicellular prokaryotic cyanobacteria. Algae comprise proteins, amino acids, fatty acids (PUFA), vitamins, polysaccharides, pigments, and other secondary metabolites. Algae are considered as suitable vegetable-like food sources and are also used as supplements for healthy food. The presence of bioactive metabolites and beneficial compounds in some macro- and microalgae can be an active ingredient for various nutraceuticals and healthcare medicines. Algae also represent a valuable source of minerals, antioxidants, and natural colorants; hence, the whole algae biomass and the extracted compounds have used as active food and feed supplements for infant food and specialist food for some diseased patients. This chapter outlines the food, feed, nutrient, and nutraceutical uses of macro- and microalgae and their health benefits along with special function food formulations.