Fresh Spirulina platensis refers to a type of blue-green algae known as Spirulina platensis that is harvested and consumed in its live, raw, or fresh form.
Fresh Spirulina platensis, harvested and consumed in its live, raw form, has a milder taste and smoother texture than dried Spirulina, making it more palatable for some people. Fresh Spirulina platensis generally has a shorter shelf life and must be refrigerated to maintain its freshness, but is considered to be less processed and may retain more of its original nutrients.
Dried Spirulina platensis, on the other hand, has most of its moisture removed during the drying process, resulting in a powder or tablet form with a concentrated nutrient content and a longer shelf life. The choice between fresh and dried Spirulina depends on personal preference, convenience and availability, with each form having its own unique advantages and potential drawbacks.
Fresh Spirulina platensis is an unprocessed product and contains valuable proteins and vital substances such as carotenoids and phycocyanin. It is a natural raw food, which means that all enzymes and pigments are still biologically active and can perform their functions. For this reason fresh Spirulina platensis is used in fresh cuisine and for the production of food. For a longer shelf life, the product can be easily frozen in portions and added to meals as needed.
Compared to powder, fresh Spirulina platensis has an advantage in taste and texture. It has a milder flavour and a creamy consistency. It can be eaten on its own or simply used as a dip or spread on bread. There is no loss of flavour, as is often the case with dried spirulina products.
Fresh spirulina paste is ready to use and does not need to be rehydrated like dried powder. It can be easily incorporated into a variety of recipes such as smoothies, sauces or dressings.
Fresh Spirulina platensis is typically used as a nutrient-rich dietary supplement or food ingredient due to its high protein content, essential vitamins and antioxidants. Its milder taste and smoother texture compared to dried Spirulina make it suitable for adding to smoothies, juices, salad dressings, or other recipes as a convenient way to incorporate.