Spirulina and Chlorella as a Source of Vitamin B12

Spirulina and chlorella are macroalgae that are grown for their nutritional content. They are good sources of a number of nutrients including protein, vitamins, minerals and phytochemical antioxidants. Microalgae have excellent nutritional value and have become increasingly popular in Western nations as a food supplement for the health conscious. In terms of vitamin B, spirulina and chlorella are good sources of riboflavin and niacin. In terms of folate, chlorella may contain much higher amounts, and the folate in the two microalgae may differ. Vitamin B12 is present in spirulina as a pseudovitamin B12 which is not biologically active in humans. However, chlorella does contain some active vitamin B12 that may be absorbed by humans and contribute to the daily intake. In terms of vitamin B12, chlorella may therefore be a better source of the vitamin than spirulina, but neither may supply enough to meet daily requirements. Vegetarians and vegans are therefore recommended to find better sources of vitamin B12. 

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Edelmann, M., Aalto, S., Chamlagain, B., Kariluoto, S. and Piironen, V. 2019. Riboflavin, niacin, folate and vitamin B12 in commercial microalgae powders. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis. 82: 103226

About Robert Barrington

Robert Barrington is a writer, nutritionist, lecturer and philosopher.
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