What Is Chlorella Pyrenoidosa?
Chlorella is a single-celled green alga that lives in fresh water. Each cell is a tiny sphere only a few thousandths of a millimeter across, and chlorella is one of the oldest forms of life on Earth. The species sold as Chlorella pyrenoidosa has been reclassified by scientists as Auxenochlorella pyrenoidosa, so you may see both names.
The name chlorella comes from chlorophyll, the green pigment that gives plants and algae their color. Chlorella has one of the highest chlorophyll contents of any plant, which is why the powder is such an intense, deep green.
Chlorella is grown in clean freshwater tanks or ponds, harvested, dried and milled into a fine powder. It is naturally rich in protein and is a popular green ingredient in Japan, Korea and Taiwan, where it has been produced commercially since the 1960s.
Today chlorella powder is mostly used in smoothies, juices, green drinks and plant milk, and in energy balls, dips and pesto. It has a mild, slightly grassy and sea-like taste that blends well with fruit, especially banana, pineapple, mango and citrus.
Our chlorella powder contains only chlorella with nothing added. It is sold by weight, from small packs to bulk.
How to Use Chlorella Powder
- Smoothies: Blend 1/2 to 1 teaspoon (about 1 to 3 g) into a fruit smoothie. Start small and increase gradually.
- Green drinks: Shake into water, juice or plant milk with a squeeze of lemon.
- Energy balls and dips: Mix into energy balls, hummus or pesto for a deep green color.
Safety
Start with small amounts. Chlorella contains vitamin K, so consult a healthcare professional if you take blood-thinning medication such as warfarin. Avoid if you are allergic to algae or mold, have an autoimmune condition, or are pregnant or nursing, unless advised by a qualified healthcare professional. Keep out of reach of children.
Read our full guide: Green chlorella smoothie: our easy recipe
Frequently Asked Questions
What is chlorella pyrenoidosa?
It is a freshwater single-celled green alga, now classified as Auxenochlorella pyrenoidosa.
What is the difference between chlorella and spirulina?
Chlorella is a true green alga. Spirulina is a blue-green cyanobacterium with a different taste and color.
What does chlorella taste like?
It is mild, grassy and slightly sea-like. Fruit and citrus balance the taste.
How much chlorella powder should I use?
Start with 1/2 teaspoon a day and increase gradually as you get used to it.
How should I store chlorella powder?
Keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dry and dark place.
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