Algae Protein Review
Algae Protein is a plant-based protein that claims to be one of the most efficient types of plant-based protein made today. How does algae protein compare with traditional whey and soy proteins?
Find out today in our Algae Protein review.
What is Algae Protein?
Algae protein, as the name suggests, is protein powder made from algae. Algae grows in seawater via photosynthesis. By harvesting, extracting, drying, and purifying algae, supplement manufacturers have realized that you can make a pretty effective protein powder.
The first and most important thing to know about algae protein is that it’s the best source of plant-based protein in terms of protein content by weight: it’s about 60% protein by weight. That’s more protein than red meat!
It also requires only a fraction of the energy of other major foods and protein powders. Since algae is at the bottom of the food chain, it’s one of the most sustainable edible items produced in the world today.
The most popular type of algae protein is called spirulina. This blue-green algae grows in freshwater and is made up of single-cell organisms. It’s thought that spirulina has existed on our planet since the early beginnings of life.
Spirulina has actually been used as a food source for centuries. Modern supplement manufacturers, however, are discovering that spirulina is also one of the most effective superfoods.
Aside from spirulina, some algae protein manufacturers use an alternative algae called blue green algae, or AFA. Blue green algae is edible and can be consumed as a food source by humans.
Algae protein also packs a punch in terms of its amino acid profile. It contains all 9 essential amino acids, which means it’s classified as a complete source of protein.
Algae protein users also like to point out that the supplement contains a rich blend of Vitamins And Minerals, and antioxidants, which means it has general health effects beyond simply boosting muscle strength.
Benefits of Algae Protein
— 60% Total Protein Content, Although It Ranges From 50% To 70% Depending On The Algae (algae is the best source of protein in the entire plant kingdom)
— Healthy Balance Of Minerals And Vitamins
— Vegan Friendly
— Contains All 9 Essential Amino Acids, Which Are Critical For Both Muscle Growth And Cognitive Development
— Immune-System Boosting Antioxidants Like Beta-carotene And Phycocyanin
How to Use Algae Protein
Algae protein or spirulina protein typically comes in the form of dried flakes or powder. You can also find it in capsule or tablet form. Some people prefer algae protein in capsules because they find the taste unpleasant.
If you’re mixing algae protein in food or drinks, then you’ll find that it easily dissolves into a glass of water. It’s also commonly found in green smoothies, protein shakes, and raw juice blends.
Some people also sprinkle algae protein flakes over top of a salad, or bake it into a protein bar, or add it to raw soup.
How to Buy Algae Protein
You can buy algae protein at most health food stores online and offline. If you’re having trouble finding “algae protein”, try searching for “spirulina protein” or “spirulina powder” instead. Most algae proteins are spirulina powders, because spirulina is widely recognized as a superfood.
You can buy algae protein in the form of a capsule or tablet if you don’t like the taste. Or, you can buy the powder, which makes it easier to customize your dose.
In any case, you’ll typically be paying more than you normally would for a container of protein. This NOW Spirulina Powder, which is certified organic, is priced at around $27 for a 1 pound container on Amazon, for example (although some retailers price it as high as $50).
GNC also sells a supplement called SuperFoods Spirulina priced at $10.99 for 100 capsules. That capsule doesn’t actually contain any protein, although many people will choose to take it for the health benefits of spirulina.
Ultimately, algae protein is one of those niche protein powders that doesn’t have a large market share. This can make it difficult to find in-store.
But with the plant-based protein industry growing by leaps and bounds every year, expect to see more algae protein powders hitting the market to keep up with demand.
It’s also important to note that algae is one of the most sustainable foods to grow and harvest: since it’s at the bottom of the food chain, it requires only about 4% as much resources to produce per pound as other popular supplements – like whey protein.
Who Should Use Algae Protein?
Algae protein is a protein popular among vegans and raw food dieters. But it’s also popular among anyone who is health-conscious and wants to try out a protein powder packed with vitamins, nutrients, phytonutrients, antioxidants, and many other valuable ingredients.
Best of all, algae protein has the highest protein content of any plant-based protein. In fact, algae has the highest protein content of any member of the plant kingdom! It is impossible to get higher levels of protein from any type of plant.
For all of these reasons, algae protein is popular among people of all different backgrounds and health goals. Whether you’re interested in high levels of protein or just want to enjoy antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients, plant-based algae protein can be an effective health solution.
