Spirulina is a type of cyanobacterium — often called blue-green algae — that grows in both fresh water and salt water. It has been used as a food source by indigenous populations in Mexico and Africa for centuries. Today, spirulina is commercially cultivated and sold as a supplement in tablet, capsule, and powder form. It is one of the most studied algae in nutrition science.
What does spirulina contain?
Spirulina is notable for its exceptionally high protein content — approximately 55–70% by dry weight — making it one of the most protein-dense whole foods by percentage. The protein in spirulina is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids.
Beyond protein, spirulina contains significant amounts of B vitamins (including B1, B2, and B3), iron, copper, and magnesium. It also contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid. The blue-green colour of spirulina comes from phycocyanin, a pigment-protein complex that is unique to cyanobacteria and is the subject of ongoing research.
What is phycocyanin?
Phycocyanin is the blue pigment found in spirulina. It is the compound that gives spirulina its distinctive colour and is one of the most studied components of the algae. Phycocyanin is a water-soluble protein-pigment complex and is considered one of the primary bioactive components of spirulina.
How is spirulina produced?
Commercial spirulina is grown in large outdoor ponds or closed bioreactors under controlled conditions. After harvesting, it is spray-dried or freeze-dried to preserve nutrients, then ground into powder or pressed into tablets. Quality spirulina should be tested for heavy metals and microcystin contamination, as contaminated water sources can introduce these.
How much to take?
Most spirulina supplements recommend 3–5 grams per day. At this dose, spirulina provides a meaningful amount of protein, iron, and B vitamins relative to its small volume. Some people take higher amounts (up to 10 g/day), particularly those using it as a food supplement rather than a targeted supplement.
Available product
Supplements & More carries Horbäach Spirulina tablets. Imported from the United States, delivered across Lebanon with cash on delivery.