Algae as a Sustainable Source of High-Value Nutritional Ingredients: Regulatory Framework and Health Benefits
摘要
Algae offer a sustainable and highly promising nutritional solution for the future. They are a rich source of protein, essential vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds. This chapter discusses their dual role as nutritional powerhouses and versatile food ingredients, highlighting essential health benefits, including cardiovascular support, weight management, metabolic health, and antioxidant properties, as well as valuable technical features such as emulsification and gelling. Despite growing consumer interest, challenges related to production technology, regulatory frameworks, and sensory qualities such as taste and odor persist. To overcome these issues, this chapter suggests innovative formulation strategies and underscores the need for ongoing research. In conclusion, algal proteins are a practical and sustainable functional ingredient with the potential to benefit food production and public health significantly.