A review of high value-added molecules production by microalgae in light of the classification

Abstract

This work reviews applications of high added value molecules produced from microalgae. Older forms of valorization - health food and quality feed, polyunsaturated fatty acids, pigments, carbohydrates - are currently penetrating their markets. They are driven by desirable properties: texturer and dye for food industry, antioxidant for cosmetics and the appetite of the general public for biosourced compounds. Most recent developments, such as peptides, vitamins, polyphenols, phytosterols and phytohormones, are struggling to meet their market and reach economical competitiveness. Still they are pushed forward by the very powerful driver that is pharmaceutical industry. In addition this work also proposes to link microalgae phyla and related potential applications. This is done through highlighting of which bioactive compounds can be found in which phyla. While some seem to be restricted to aquaculture, Cyanobacteria, Chlorophyta and Rhodophyta show great promises.

Keywords: Applications; Bioactive compounds; Classification; Microalgae.