How to Choose the Best Spirulina ? Spirulina is a superfood widely recognized for its nutritional benefits. Unsurprisingly, France consumes over 250 tons of this microalgae annually. It is now available almost everywhere: specialized farms, online platforms like Amazon, pharmacies, health stores, sports shops, and even through some practitioners.
However, not all spirulina products are created equal. Price differences often reflect quality variations. As experts in spirulina production and commercialization, we’ll guide you on how to choose high-quality spirulina (and phycocyanin), while avoiding products that lack active principles.
Best Forms of Spirulina to Purchase
Liquid Phycocyanin: The Preferred Choice for Maximum Boost
Phycocyanin, the active principle in spirulina, is extracted from fresh spirulina, offering concentrated benefits. In liquid form, it is up to 5,000 times more bioavailable and digestible than dried spirulina. This ensures maximum absorption of its benefits without loss.
- Key Advantages:
- Rapid absorption.
- No taste or odor, making it easy to mix into beverages.
- Suitable for children and elderly individuals.
Athletes or those seeking a metabolic boost can opt for one- or two-month courses with varying concentration levels.
Spirulina Flakes: Optimal Nutritional Retention
Spirulina flakes undergo minimal processing, preserving their raw form and nutritional content. Typically produced by artisanal or local farmers, flakes are dried at low temperatures to retain their nutritional benefits, including:
- Trace elements.
- Vitamins.
- Proteins and amino acids.
Flakes are ideal for those seeking maximum nutritional value with minimal processing.
Fresh Spirulina: Nutritionally Rich but Less Practical
While fresh spirulina guarantees the highest bioavailability and nutrient retention, it has limitations:
- Requires proximity to a local producer.
- Short shelf life, lasting only a few days in refrigeration.
Forms of Spirulina to Avoid
Tablets and Capsules: Low Assimilation Rates
Compressed tablets and capsules often undergo excessive processing, including high-temperature drying and compression. This results in:
- Loss of nutrients.
- Poor assimilation (up to 70% rejection by the body).
- Added preservatives and stabilizers.
Multi-Nutrient Supplements: Over-Dilution of Spirulina’s Benefits
Supplements combining spirulina with other nutrients often include minimal spirulina content, reducing its effectiveness. Opt for concentrated spirulina products instead.
Powdered Spirulina: Check the Source
While powdered spirulina offers convenience, it often originates from industrial-scale productions in countries like China or the U.S. These are typically dried via atomization, diminishing their nutritional benefits. Seek powders from trusted, artisanal producers.
Where to Buy Spirulina
Specialized Producers: The Best Choice for Local Quality
Small and medium aquaculture farms in France often provide high-quality spirulina with excellent traceability. They typically offer:
- Fresh spirulina.
- Flakes.
- Powder or phycocyanin extracted from fresh spirulina.
Always inquire about their cultivation and processing methods.
Organic Stores: A Variety of Options
Health food stores offer a range of spirulina products, including organic options. However, ensure the product’s traceability and opt for French-produced artisanal spirulina whenever possible.
Pharmacies: A Less Reliable Source
Pharmacies and parapharmacies increasingly stock spirulina. However, much of it is imported and processed. If your local producer distributes to pharmacies, prioritize their products.
Amazon: Use Caution
While Amazon offers numerous spirulina options, most are low-quality industrial products. However, some French producers, such as Performe, sell certified products on the platform. Only purchase from trusted producers.
Key Questions Before Buying Spirulina
1. Where and How Was the Spirulina Cultivated?
High-quality spirulina requires specific conditions, including:
- Alkaline, nutrient-rich water.
- Adequate sunlight and warmth (~35°C).
- Respectful harvesting and processing methods.
Favor artisanal or medium-sized aquaculture farms over industrial-scale producers.
2. How Was the Spirulina Dried?
Drying at temperatures between 30–40°C preserves nutritional value. Avoid products subjected to high-temperature atomization.
3. How Was the Phycocyanin Extracted?
Phycocyanin should be extracted cold and without solvents to maintain its integrity. Look for products using sustainable, eco-friendly methods.
