People have used algae as food fertilizer for hundreds of years. More recent uses of algae include biodiesel fuel, thickening agent for food, bacterial growth medium, and pollution control. Algaculture is a form of aquaculture involving the farming of species of algae for different uses.

How is red algae used for food?

Carrageenan is extracted from red algae (rhodophyta) and is used to bind foods together. Some examples of products that contain carrageenan are dog food, chocolate, toothpaste and baby food. Alginate comes from brown algae (phaeophyta) and is used to make water-based products thicker or creamier.

Is algae good for humans?

They’ve been studied extensively, and what we’ve discovered is that they’re truly a superfood. Not only can algae be a source of greens, protein, vitamins and minerals, it can also strengthen the immune system, help cleanse the body of toxins and boost your energy.