Phycocyanin – The Blue Active Ingredient from Nature

Note: This article does not constitute medical advice. According to EU Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006, no health claims are permitted for phycocyanin or spirulina.

What is phycocyanin?

Phycocyanin is a naturally occurring pigment-protein extracted from the blue-green algae Arthrospira platensis (spirulina). It is responsible for the characteristic, intense blue color of blue spirulina and is one of the few natural blue colorants available.

How is phycocyanin extracted?

Extraction is carried out from dried spirulina powder using a gentle water-based process. The result is a concentrated, water-soluble pigment. There are different grades of purity:

• Food Grade (E18) – for food and beverages
• Reagent Grade (E25+) – higher purity for more demanding applications

Phycocyanin as a natural food coloring

In the EU, phycocyanin is approved as a natural colorant and is used in: smoothies and cold drinks, ice cream and desserts, confectionery and baked goods, and food supplements.

Nutritional profile

As a protein pigment, phycocyanin provides plant-based protein and antioxidants as part of a balanced diet. Food supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet.

What to look for when buying?

• Purity level (E18 for food)
• Lab-tested quality – free from heavy metals
• Certified origin (EU organic or equivalent)
• Light-protected storage – phycocyanin is light-sensitive

Conclusion

Phycocyanin is one of the most fascinating natural colorants and an interesting component of a balanced diet – an attractive alternative to synthetic food colorings.

This article does not constitute medical advice. Health claims according to EU Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006 are not permitted for phycocyanin/spirulina.