Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food

Microalgae and cyanobacteria can be farmed year round in many parts of the world by using renewable energy in order to be used as a source of protein in human consumption. Algae is packed with proteins and other nutrients that are essential for human diets and can be added to increase protein content. This source of protein has fewer negative environmental impacts than production of other protein sources (crops and livestock) as it has the potential to decrease soil degradation, reduce overuse of freshwater, and reduce carbon emissions into the atmosphere. Algae grows in brackish water and can use geothermal or hydroelectric energy sources in order to power LED lights that allow the algae to grow. Currently, microalgae and cyanobacteria are mainly sold as a dietary supplement in the form of tablets and health drinks for human consumption, but are also used as feed additives for livestock and aquaculture. The main species farmed are Spirulina, Chlorella spp., Haematococcus pluvialis and Nannochloropsis spp.