Direct mercury analysis in micro algae-based supplements

Microalgae- and algae-based supplements have gained significant popularity in recent years due to their impressive nutrient profile, which is rich in proteins, vitamins, and antioxidants. The United Nations World Food Conference has notably recognized Spirulina platensis as “food of the future”, underscoring its excellent nutritional value and minimal resource requirements for cultivation. However, concerns have been raised regarding the quality of these products due to contamination with heavy metals, inorganic arsenic, and cyanotoxins, which can bring healthy risks. Microalgae have a special ability to absorb and accumulate heavy metals, including mercury, from their surrounding aquatic environment; they have cell walls containing specific functional groups, such as carboxyl, hydroxyl, and sulfhydryl groups, which allow these photosynthetic organisms to effectively bind with harmful substances in their growth environments. Elements such as mercury are known to bioaccumulate in microalgae and can have toxic effects on the nervous system.