Chlorella

Buy chlorella: the green freshwater alga in tablets and powder

Chlorella is a single-celled freshwater alga with an intense green colour, which it owes to its high chlorophyll content. The alga is popular as a green dietary supplement, often in the form of tablets or powder. Chlorella naturally contains proteins, vitamins, minerals and plant compounds. In our range, you will find chlorella as a standalone supplement and in green mixes, in which the alga is often combined with spirulina and other green ingredients.

What is chlorella?

Chlorella is a genus of single-celled green algae that live in freshwater. The alga is known for its high chlorophyll content, the green pigment that plants and algae use for photosynthesis. Chlorella also naturally contains proteins, fibre, vitamins, minerals and other plant compounds. Because chlorella has a tough cell wall, the alga is often processed for use in supplements: the cell wall is "broken" or "cracked". The label states how much chlorella a product provides per serving.

Where does chlorella come from?

Chlorella used in supplements is grown in freshwater ponds or closed cultivation systems under controlled conditions and with plenty of sunlight for photosynthesis. After harvesting, the alga is dried and processed into powder or pressed into tablets. Because algae can absorb substances from their environment, cultivation conditions and quality control are important; quality products are tested for purity. The origin and cultivation method may vary by brand and are often stated on the packaging.

Chlorella and spirulina: what is the difference?

Chlorella is often mentioned in the same breath as spirulina, and both are popular green supplements, but there are differences. Chlorella is a true single-celled green alga with a cell nucleus and a tough cell wall, while spirulina is a blue-green bacterium (cyanobacterium) with a spiral shape. Both naturally contain proteins and plant compounds, but their composition differs; chlorella is known for its high chlorophyll content. In many green mixes, chlorella and spirulina are actually used together.

What forms of chlorella are available?

Chlorella is available in various forms. Tablets are popular because they are easy to dose and the distinctive algal taste is less noticeable. Powder is versatile and can be stirred into water, juice or a smoothie, but has a pronounced green taste. Chlorella is also available in green mixes, together with spirulina, wheatgrass and other green ingredients, for example. When comparing products, check whether the cell wall has been broken and how much chlorella is provided per serving.

How much chlorella per day?

No official recommended daily intake has been established for chlorella. The dosage varies by product and is stated on the packaging, expressed in grams of powder or the number of tablets per serving. Because a serving of chlorella can be relatively large, tablets may sometimes require several pieces at a time. Follow the directions for use of the specific supplement and do not exceed the recommended dosage without advice. If you are taking medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or in doubt, it is advisable to consult a doctor beforehand.

Buying chlorella: what to look for?

When choosing a chlorella supplement, there are a few practical points to consider. Look at the amount of chlorella per serving and whether the cell wall has been broken. Decide whether you prefer tablets or powder, and whether you are looking for pure chlorella or a green mix with spirulina, for example. Pay attention to the origin, purity and whether the product has been tested for contaminants. Chlorella is a green alga; for related products, also view our Herbs & Plants collection.