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Products Derived From Algae

The term "algae" refers to a large group of simple, plantlike organisms that are usually aquatic. Although they differ from most plants in that they do not have true roots, stems or leaves, most do have chlorophyll and are photosynthetic. Found worldwide, they range in size from microscopic, one-celled organisms (microalgae) to multicell fibrous mats over 100 feet long (macroalgae). These larger varieties are generally known as seaweed. Algae can be gathered in the wild or cultivated, and many commercial products are derived from them.

Thickener
- The algae derivative agar acts as a thickener. Used since the 17th century, its most prominent modern use is as a growing medium for scientific and medical research because of its capacity to hold water. It is still used as a thickener in commercial food products such as cookie dough, yogurt and fruit pies.
Emulsifier
- Emulsifiers are substances that either make products more presentable or lengthen their shelf life by not allowing substances that would separate naturally to separate (such as oil and water). Alginic acid and carageenan, both food additives derived from the cell walls of algae, are used as emulsifiers in a wide variety of food products such as ice cream, ramen noodles, orange juice and pumpkin pie. Some beauty and hygiene products, like shampoos and toothpastes, also contain these substances.
Abrasive or Filtering Agent
- Even fossilized algae are used commercially. The silica in the fossilized cell walls of planktonic algae, called diatoms, are used to make diatomaceous earth. A very fine, sand-like substance, diatomaceous earth is used as a silver polish and as swimming pool filtering powder. Its abrasive properties also make it useful for insect control. With its microscopic, sharp edges, diatomaceous earth acts either by cutting through the insect's outer layer and dehydrating it, or by cutting it internally upon being ingested.
Biofuel
- Fuel substances like ethanol, butanol, hydrogen and vegetable oil can all be derived from algae. It can also be cultivated and used as biomass to burn for energy. Using algae in this fashion is still under development and has yet to become as commercially viable as other sources.
Agricultural Products
- Seaweed is used in agricultural applications as soil conditioner, fertilizer or animal feed. It can be applied to soil directly as ground-up seaweed, called kelp meal, or sprayed in the form of kelp extract, a solution of compounds that have been extracted from the seaweed. As an animal feed, kelp meal is added to food to provide extra nutrients.
Food Product
- Seaweed is a popular food, especially in Japan, China, Korea and in countries on the Indian Ocean. An essential ingredient in many of the regional dishes, seaweed cultivation is a major industry in each of these countries. The major species cultivated for eating are nori, kombu and wakame.

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