Algae – A Global Phenomenon

Nori is a staple in sushi. You might already be having spirulina in your morning smoothie. And you’ve no doubt seen kelp noodles on the shelves of your favorite grocery store. Regardless of the form, we’re talking about algae. Algae is a nonflowering, typically aquatic plant that includes seaweeds. It’s extremely nutritious and people have been consuming it for centuries. Today, algae consumption is a global phenomenon with a rich history that spans ancient traditions to modern scientific and culinary advancements.

The nutritional and medicinal benefits of algae have long been recognized around the world. In East Asia, particularly in Japan, China, and Korea, algae have been part of the diet for centuries. Nori and kombu are examples of seaweed that were traditionally harvested and consumed. Nori, for instance, has been used in Japan since the 8th century, primarily as a wrap for sushi or as a seasoning.

On the Table, In the Medicine Cabinet

The Aztecs harvested spirulina, a blue-green algae, from Lake Texcoco in Mexico. They made it into cakes known as “tecuitlatl,” which were a significant source of protein.

Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Islands, including Hawaii, have a long history of consuming algae, particularly varieties of seaweed like limu.

Algae were also used medicinally in various cultures. For example, in traditional Chinese medicine, certain types of seaweed were used to treat goiter and other ailments, likely due to their high iodine content.

The 19th and 20th centuries saw an increase in scientific research into algae, particularly as a source of iodine. During World War I and World War II, food shortages created a renewed interest in algae as a potential food source.

Nutrition

By the mid-20th century, commercial production of algae began to take off. That was especially true in Japan, where seaweed farming became a major industry. Nori became widely cultivated for commercial use. In the 1960s and 1970s, spirulina and chlorella  gained popularity in the West as health supplements due to their high protein content and purported health benefits.

The potential health benefits of algae make it a promising food source for the future. Those benefits include:

• Nutrient-Dense – Algae are rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium.
• High Protein – Algae such as spirulina and chlorella are excellent sources of plant-based protein, making them popular among vegetarians and vegans.
• High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Certain algae, like seaweed, are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart and brain health.
• Antioxidant Properties – Algae contains antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
• Supports Gut Health – Algae are a good source of fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and supports a balanced gut microbiome.

Eat Up!

Today, algae are used in a variety of food products, including snacks, supplements, and even as ingredients in plant-based meat alternatives. You may actually have some algae products in your own pantry or refrigerator, and not even know it.

Nori, kelp, and dulse  are common types of seaweed available as snacks or dried sheets. Spirulina and chlorella are often found in powder or tablet form. They can be added to smoothies or taken as supplements. Algae oil is a plant-based alternative to fish oil. It is high in omega-3 fatty acids.

Many grocery shelves now offer a variety of kelp noodles. They provide a low-calorie, nutrient-rich alternative to traditional pasta. Even some health drinks and smoothies are fortified with algae like spirulina or chlorella for an extra nutritional boost. Algae are also being used as natural food colorants and flavor enhancers.

But grocery stores aren’t the only place you can find algae. Today, chefs all over the world, including fine dining, are using algae to the delight of their customers.

A Part of Your 100 Year Lifestyle

Clearly, incorporating high quality algae-based foods and supplements into your diet can offer numerous health benefits. With a variety of algae-based products available, it’s easier than ever for carnivores and vegans alike to enjoy these benefits as part of a balanced diet and your 100 Year Lifestyle.