A safety-aware intake modeling framework for translating edible algal biomass into nutritional bioproducts

Abstract

Edible algal biomass has emerged as a promising platform for nutritional bioproduct development, but its practical translation depends on compositional variability, intake feasibility, and safety constraints. Here, we integrated biochemical profiling, trace element screening, age-specific intake modeling, and community consumption context to evaluate commercially available and supplier-provided microalgal and seaweed products within realistic application boundaries. Selected products differed substantially in macronutrient composition, fatty acid profiles, pigments, polyphenols, and mineral composition, indicating product- and species-specific roles as nutritional biomass rather than interchangeable ingredients. Across species and age groups, approximately 0.7 to 3.1 g dry biomass provided 20% of age-specific alpha-linolenic acid intake, with approximately 1 g sufficient for several products. Multi-species allocations improved omega-3 representation while remaining within practical intake limits and trace element-based screening thresholds. Community consumption data from Pacific Island children showed low and episodic seaweed intake, highlighting a gap between biomass potential and routine dietary use. These findings support safety-aware modeling as a preliminary screening and decision-support strategy for evaluating edible algal biomass before further product-specific validation.

Keywords

Edible algal biomass / Microalgae / Algal biotechnology / Omega-3 fatty acids / Safety-aware modeling / Nutritional bioproducts

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Funding

University of Hawai'i at Mānoa(23-FY23-HA-5047H-DU)

National Institute of Food and Agriculture(2022-38500-38099)

Institute of Clinical and Translational Sciences(2021-333)

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

The Author(s)