Chlorella

Overview

Chlorella is a microalgae providing bioavailable, true vitamin B12 (cobalamin) confirmed in animal feeding trials, plus antioxidants and amino acids. Chlorella contains bioavailable, true vitamin B12 (cobalamin), confirmed in animal feeding trials, and may help close vegan nutrient gaps.

Food Context

Synergies

Part of functional food strategy

Sourcing

Choose quality sources with confirmed B12 content

Preparation

Available as powder, tablets, or capsules
Important for vegan B12 intake

Essential Amino Acid Profile

Chlorella contribute plant protein. Pair with complementary protein sources (e.g. grains and legumes) for a balanced essential amino acid profile.

Recipes

Nutrient Tables (per 100 g)

Core nutrients

Nutrient	Amount per 100 g	% RDA per 100 g
Energy	300 kcal	—
Protein	60 g	—
Total fat	0 g	—
Saturated fat	0 g	—
Carbohydrates	40 g	—
Fibre	0 g	—

Key micronutrients

Nutrient	Amount per 100 g	% RDA per 100 g
Iron	240 mg	1333.3%
Calcium	333 mg	33.3%
Potassium	0 mg	0%
Vitamin B12	300 µg	12500%

Reference intakes: US Dietary Reference Intakes for adults (19–50 years; using the higher of male/female values where they differ).

Data provenance (core / micronutrient panel): USDA FoodData Central, CHLORELLA POWDER, FDC ID 1064099, API, per 100 g edible portion, last checked 2026-03-14

Substances

References

Chlorella contains bioavailable, true vitamin B12 (cobalamin), confirmed in animal feeding trials, and may help close vegan nutrient gaps Watanabe et al. 2002. By contrast, spirulina is dominated by pseudovitamin B12 analogues, which are inactive in humans and therefore unsuitable as a primary B12 source. Nonetheless, both algae provide antioxidant and amino acid support

Overview​

Food Context​

Synergies​

Sourcing​

Preparation​

Essential Amino Acid Profile​

Recipes​