We sometimes wonder what humans will eat in 50 years, and if we often name insects, we think less... of algae! However, spirulina, a micro-algae taking its name from its spiral shape, is often considered "the food of tomorrow" thanks to these (very) many nutritional qualities and its richness in vitamins and minerals. Low in calories, it is now cultivated industrially and its consumption is becoming widespread. So, here are 4 things to know about this seaweed with superpowers!
Spirulina is therefore a blue-green micro-algae. If the natural appearance of these plants is sometimes unappetizing, they are nevertheless more and more talked about, and are (among other things) the main ingredient of the famous mermaid toast, these blue dough sandwiches that amaze the community. from Instagram. Spirulina first grows naturally in warm environments, but it is now cultivated by producers around the world in culture ponds. Once harvested, it is sent for drying or put up for sale fresh.
2/ It's a superfood
Spirulina is considered a "superfood", a name it derives from the many nutritional qualities it provides. First appreciated for its draining properties, it is also used to reduce the caloric intake of meals. It has a strong antioxidant power (in short, it helps to slow down the aging of the skin and fights against free radicals, responsible for certain serious diseases). For athletes, it reduces aches, reduces pain and helps muscle reconstruction. Finally, spirulina is very rich in iron, protein and contains all the essential amino acids (especially present in meat) and can therefore be used as an effective substitute by vegetarians, even during pregnancy.
Spirulina can be consumed over a short period, as a cure, to replenish vitamins, or daily to combat deficiencies. It exists in several forms:flakes, powder, tablets, energy bars or still fresh, and it is advisable to take between 2 and 5 grams per day, 20 minutes before meals. It is best to consume a low dose at the beginning, which you will increase over the weeks, so you will not experience unpleasant side effects such as diarrhea. Taken fresh, its taste should not be bitter, but it is not necessarily pleasant for all palates, so it can be incorporated into recipes. On the price side, there is 19.85 € for a jar of 600 tablets on the Jolivia site; €10.95 for 200 tablets at Nat &Form (E.Leclerc parapharmacy); and between €15 and €16 for a 100 g sachet in flakes or powder on Spirulina from the Côte Bleue.
To allow us to consume spirulina fresh and daily, the start-up Alg &You has imagined aquatic gardens called Bloom which allow us to cultivate it... directly in our kitchen! The company thus aims to (re)give meaning to our consumption, to transmit to us the taste of the “house culture” but also to respond to the new food challenges due to the strong growth of the population. These domestic plant pots are made up of 3 transparent tanks and bring light and bubbles to the algae. On the price side, you still have to count 590 € for a Bloom (delivered at the end of 2018).
Finally, our protein source of the future may be algae, not insects (good news)!
