The name “algal” derives from the word algae, the weedy plants that live underwater. Due to its high ability to absorb sunlight, algae plants contain a high level of protein. Algal protein can be used as food, dietary supplement, or for applications in industry.
There are many benefits of supplementing a diet with algal protein. Spirulina, a derivative product of algal protein, has been shown to be useful in treating arthritis and hypertension, as well as to improve tolerance for exercise. Scientific studies have been undertaken by the National Institute of Health to further confirm any health benefits of this product.
One source of algal protein called Chlorella is a good source of protein, due to its high absorbance rate of sunlight. As a dried food, Chlorella has a high protein content of more than 40%. Since the source are algae which are prevalent in nature, it is cheap to produce, and is a good alternative to more expensive sources of protein. This source algal protein is also used to produce oils which have a high polyunsaturated fats content. Some nutritionist claim that Chlorella can help with cancer prevention and weight control. It is also known that taking this source of algal protein as supplement can lower the level of dioxin in breast milk.
Due to its high ability to absorb energy from sunlight, algal protein was found to be useful in the industrial process of hydrogen production. This is done by means of photo-electrical cells that is used to produce water from hydrogen. By adding algal protein to the photo-electrical cells (which act to increase the ability for the cells to absorb sunlight), the cells become more efficient and are able to split the water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen at a higher rate. This recent discovery by scientists at the Swiss research institute EMPA [1] is an important step towards developing a more efficient source of green energy. Other than the energy industry, hydrogen has plenty of industrial uses in the manufacturing and pharmaceutical industries.
