Production of Phycocyanin from Spirulina

Introduction

Phycocyanin (Blue) and Phycoerythrin (Red) are the two main natural pigments commercially produced from algae. Phycocyanins and phycoerythrins are the photosynthetic accessory pigments collectively called Phycocyanobilins or Phycobiliproteins. The blue green algae Spirulina platensis is a potential source for the production of phycocyanin for commerical purpose.

Benefits

Natural colourants, such as Phycocyanin, are gaining importance over synthetic colours,as they are nontoxic and non-carcinogenic. Uses of phycocyanin in foods include the colouring of fermented milk products, ice creams, chewing gum, soft drinks, alcoholic drinks, desserts, sweet cake decoration, milk shakes etc. Phycocyanin Colourants are also suitable for use in cosmetics.

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