Evaluation of strategies for preservation of microalgae Chlorella

The biomass obtained from microalgae, such as Chlorella, is used to make dietary products, supplements and pharmaceuticals. However, microalgae are produced very far from consumption places. One of the most usual distribution forms is as a dry product, a process that entails high production costs and leads to the loss of certain nutritional properties. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate alternative preservation strategies for microalgae Chlorella other than dehydration and freezing. To that end, sterilization, acidification, and packaging material were analyzed during 2 months of storage under different temperature and light exposure conditions. The results showed that color was modified considerably by sterilization, regardless of light exposure and type of package, whereas citric acid preserved color, especially at low storage temperatures. Furthermore, the study shows that acidification with 3.5% of citric acid and vacuum packaging are the recommended treatment for microalgae, without the need for cold storage. Practical applicationsStabilization of microalgae Chlorella from production to consumption places could increase the possibilities of commercialization of this product, recently labeled superfood by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. In order to preserve all their nutritional properties for at least 2 months, acidification with 3.5% of citric acid and vacuum packaging are the recommended treatments, without the need for cold storage.