History

Ancient and inconspicuous

We owe the discovery of the inconspicuous chlorella to the Dutch microbiologist Mr M. W. Beijerinck, who discovered and first isolated it in 1890. However, during his research, he found a close connection between chlorella and Acritarch microfossils dating back 1.5 billion years. He thus proved that this freshwater algae had been part of the ecosystem for a very long time. [1]

It won over the whole world

The contained biologically active substances, their effects and high absorbability have been the subject of many scientific studies, which continue to generate new knowledge and present interesting conclusions. Thanks to its beneficial effects, chlorella has gained fans all over the world. [2,3,4,5,6]

Origin and cultivation

Protected from heavy metals

Chlorella is a single-celled freshwater algae that needs a warm climate, sufficient sunlight, plenty of nutrients and truly clean water for its ideal growth. [1] These conditions are met, as chlorella is grown in special tanks, which ensure organic cultivation conditions. Chlorella is thus additionally protected from heavy metal contamination.

High absorbability ensured

Chlorella harvested at its full maturity is then processed by a process called disintegration, through which the cellular envelope structures are disrupted. The result of the disintegration process is high absorbability and usability of the valuable substances contained in chlorella.

Pressed into tablets

The intensely green chlorella biomass is gently dried after harvesting and pressed into solid, green tablets. The tablet shape is achieved solely by the pressure of the pressing device. Due to the naturally adhesive properties of chlorella, the pressed tablets maintain their integral shape even without the use of binders, colourings, fillers or other additives. Thanks to the unique processing technology and adherence to low temperatures, chlorella is still „alive“ and retains enzymes and other valuable substances that are sensitive to high temperatures.

Composition and properties

Not all Chlorella is the same

Chlorella Pyrenoidosa or Chlorella Vulgaris, algae almost identical at first glance, yet different. Their difference lies in their composition.

Chlorella Pyrenoidosa, compared to Vulgaris, contains much more highly branched polysaccharides. Their presence has its justification, however, in problems with constipation or digestion it may not be a suitable choice. But otherwise, you will certainly appreciate it. [7]

Slight differences were also noted in the protein content and other nutrients. So, take a look at the composition and choose the right chlorella for you.

This product is naturally gluten-free – it is therefore also suitable for people with gluten intolerance and coeliacs.

A phytonutrient-packed superfood

Among the minerals, it is primarily iron, iodine, manganese and phosphorus, for their high content that chlorella is sought after. Every cell in the body will certainly welcome the presence of purely natural selenium.

Another advantage of chlorella is its high content of fat-soluble vitamin D and water-soluble vitamins B1 and B3.

Fibre, vegetable oils or easily absorbable proteins, all these macronutrients are also present.

The characteristic green colour of chlorella is also given by the naturally present carotenoid and chlorophyll pigments. Especially chlorophyll A and beta-carotene. Its growth factor is also highlighted.

For vegans and vegetarians

Due to its vitamin B12 content and high amount of iron, chlorella is also a suitable dietary supplement for vegans and vegetarians, who may have an insufficient intake of these due to restricting animal food consumption.

Usage

Simply swallow

The tablet form of chlorella is typical for its green colour and shiny appearance. Chlorella tablets can simply be swallowed with a glass of water or another favourite drink. The advantage is their more convenient dosage.

Recommended dosage

Start with a dose of 4 tablets 3 times a day (12 tablets), at least 15 minutes before a meal. Swallow with a glass of water. Over 14 days, gradually increase the dose to 7 tablets 3 times a day (21 tablets). Daily intake of Chlorella: 3–5 grams.

Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. The product is not intended as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet. Not intended for children under 3 years of age. Store in a dry place, protect from heat.

You can choose from two packaging variants:

• in a paper bag, content 250 g, 1000 tablets,
• in a glass, content 130 g, 520 tablets.

Origin: China

In conclusion

Health claims from the so-called ON HOLD list:

Chlorella:

• vitality – energy – tone, natural defences
• immunity – energy

ON HOLD list – This is a list of substances and their relationship to health, which have been submitted to EFSA for assessment, but EFSA has not yet issued a scientific opinion or the EC has not yet issued a decision. Please note that these claims are temporary.

Sources

[1] MÜLLER, Julia et al., 2005. DISTINCTION BETWEEN MULTIPLE ISOLATES OF CHLORELLA VULGARIS (CHLOROPHYTA, TREBOUXIOPHYCEAE) AND TESTING FOR CONSPECIFICITY USING AMPLIFIED FRAGMENT LENGTH POLYMORPHISM AND ITS RDNA SEQUENCES. Journal of Phytology. 41(6), 1236–1247.

[2] WANA, Xu-zhi et al., 2019. Anti-diabetic activity of PUFAs-rich extracts of Chlorella pyrenoidosa and Spirulina platensis in rats. Food and Chemical Toxicology. (128), 233–239.

[3] BITO, Tomohiro et al., 2016. Characte­rization and Quantitation of Vitamin B12 Compounds in Various Chlorella Supplements. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 64(45), 8516–8524.

[4] WAN, Xu-zhi et al., 2020. Physicoche­mical Characterization of a Polysaccharide from Green Microalga Chlorella pyrenoidosa and Its Hypolipidemic Activity via Gut Microbiota Regulation in Rats. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 68(5), 1186–1197.

[5] REYES SUA´ REZ, Erick et al., 2006. Immunos­timulatory Polysaccharides from Chlorella pyrenoidosa. A New Galactofuranan. Measurement of Molecular Weight and Molecular Weight Dispersion by DOSY NMR. Biomacromolecules. 7(8), 2368–2376.

[6] HSU, HSIEN-YEH et al., 2010. Immunos­timulatory Bioactivity of Algal Polysaccharides from Chlorella pyrenoidosa Activates Macrophages via Toll-Like Receptor 4. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 58(2), 927–936.

[7] SHI, Ying, Jianchun SHENG, Fangmei YANG a Qiuhui HU. Purification and identification of polysaccharide derived from Chlorella pyrenoidosa. Food Chemistry. 2007, (103), 101–105.