Chlorella is a single-celled green alga that lives in fresh water and, under good conditions, divides several times a day. It is named after its high chlorophyll content – among the well-known edible algae, it is the one with the most intense green.
The key point: the cell wall
Chlorella surrounds itself with a firm, multi-layered cell wall made of cellulose-like material. It protects the alga – and it resists human digestion. Unprocessed chlorella therefore largely passes through unused. During processing, the cell wall is broken open mechanically, usually by grinding in ball mills, by high pressure or by ultrasound. On the packaging this is stated as «cracked cell wall» or «broken cell wall». If that information is missing, it is worth asking – this is the step that decides whether the product makes sense or not.
Chlorella and spirulina are not the same
The two are mentioned in the same breath, but they are fundamentally different. Strictly speaking, spirulina is not an alga but a cyanobacterium; it has no firm cell wall and therefore needs no cracking. Chlorella is a true green alga with a cell nucleus. They also taste distinctly different: chlorella is grassier and stronger, spirulina milder and saltier.
What it contains
Chlorella naturally contains protein, chlorophyll, carotenoids, iron and magnesium. The levels depend heavily on the cultivation conditions – light, nutrient solution, time of harvest. Because it absorbs substances from the surrounding water, the quality of the cultivation water and testing for heavy metals are not a side issue with algae.
Our chlorella
Our organic chlorella comes as pressed tablets from certified organic cultivation – without tableting aids; the alga holds together on its own. You will find it under Seaweed & Algae and Superfoods. As a freshwater alga, it contains hardly any iodine – unlike seaweed.
Note
Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied diet. Do not exceed the stated daily dose. If you have a pre-existing condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take medication – especially anticoagulants, as chlorella contains vitamin K – seek medical advice before use.
