Reducing Costs in Large-Scale Production

摘要

Demand for food will rise significantly as a result of global population growth. And the consumption of animal products is increasing due to increasing prosperity. Total demand for plant-based food and feed is expected to exceed the bounds of feasibility within the near future. Algae have long been of keen interest to scientists as the green gold of the future. Due to their nutrient profile of non-animal protein, fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fiber, algae have a promising outlook. But despite the promise, producers across the globe still have to tackle the challenge of making algae production economically feasible. In recent decades, the use of micro-algae-derived products has been growing exponentially. The major hurdle towards the success of micro-algae derived foods, however, is the lack of incentives for microalgal-based foods production coupled with low awareness about (health) benefits. The use of microalgae in the food and nutraceutical industries is expected to expand when these obstacles are addressed. Moreover, as a nascent food ingredient alternative, microalgae offer opportunities with regards to climate change issues and meeting the dietary requirements of high population growth.