Culture and Biorefinary of Two Freshwater Microalgae; Spirulina platensis and Chlorella vulgaris As Vitamins Sources

The bio-refinery of some microalgae can already meet the high demands of both the food and pharmaceutical industries. Spirulina platensis and Chlorella vulgaris are important microalgae for the production of high value products such as vitamins. These algae are concentrated sources of carotenoids (especially pro-vitamin A carotenoids) and other nutrients, such as vitamin B12. Their health benefits as a complementary dietary source for macro and micro nutrients have been studied and confirmed in various populations. The freshwater algae were cultured in 25 m(3) open raceway pond under outdoor condition using commercial fertilizers (modified Zarrouk's medium and BG11 medium). Therefore, the present study aimed to outdoor commercial production of these algae and utilization of their vitamins content. The analyses revealed the presence of vitamin A, C, B-3, B-6, B-9, & B-12. Vitamins content was high in Spirulina samples.