A Comprehensive Safety Assessment of Algae Protein from Picochlorum for Human Consumption

Abstract

The current trend happens to be that consumers are seeking nourishing, high quality sustainable protein sources to meet their nutritional needs, thus establishing a clear intent to broaden their protein horizon. Microalgae protein holds great promise in becoming the next vegan protein option. In the present study, protein extracted from the microalga Picochlorum maculatum has been thoroughly evaluated for its safety for human consumption through a battery of in-vivo and in-vitro tests. Bacterial reverse mutation assay indicates that the test substance is non-mutagenic and studies comprising of in-vitro chromosomal aberration test and the in-vivo mammalian micronucleus test showed that the test item is non-clastogenic, and therefore, lacks genotoxicity. Based the results of an acute oral toxicity study, the test item can be classified as “Category 5” as designated in a globally harmonized system for classification of chemicals. Further, 28-day and 90-day repeated dose oral toxicity studies did not result in any mortality or morbidity throughout the experimental period; none of the animal groups used in the study showed any abnormal clinical signs, establishing a "No Observed Adverse Effect Level" of Algae Protein Powder at 3000 mg kg bw-1. Moreover, the test item exhibited a positive impact on growth in test animals. Computational studies established extremely low allergenic potential of the test item.