Food and Feed Preparation Using Algae

Algae have gained prominence as a sustainable source of food for man and feed for animals because of their high nutritional content, presenting a potential solution to global food shortages. Algae possess a variety of high-value chemicals, such as essential lipids (polyunsaturated fatty acids, omega-3 and omega-6), proteins, carbohydrates, and vitamin and minerals comparable to ingredients found in other sources such as marine products. Moreover, algae pigments have antioxidant properties and are also natural colorants, besides providing numerous functional foods or other health benefits. Among other benefits, algae supplements can enhance growth, lower feeding requirements, improve immunity, improve disease resistance, provide antimicrobial properties, and enrich animal products with natural active ingredients, among others. Recent advances in algal biotechnology have transformed algae into an effective “warehouse of cells” used in the food industry. This accelerated the growth of the algae market in food and feed. This chapter began by providing a general overview of algae and their potential. Next, algae nutritional compositions were presented as well as potential uses in human foods and animal feeds. Final steps included the identification of problems and prospects, as well as the conclusions.