Chlorella vs Spirulina: A Battle for 'Superfood' Supremacy

When it comes to the world of algae superfoods, spirulina (blue-green algae) and chlorella (solid green-colored algae) are considered top-notch. They are often heralded as the most nutrient-dense foods in the plant kingdom, yet they are frequently mistaken for being identical.

Both chlorella and spirulina boast an impressive phytonutrient profile with significant health benefits, but it's important to understand a few key differences before incorporating either into your dietary supplement regimen. Let's distinguish between the blue-green and green-green algae and explore these two freshwater superfoods, starting with chlorella.

Chlorella

Chlorella and spirulina are both microalgae, yet they are distinctly different when placed side by side. Spirulina is named for its spiral shape, whereas chlorella is a spherical, single-cell microorganism and is solely green in color, unlike the blue-green spirulina.

Chlorella thrives in freshwater environments such as ponds, rivers, and lakes. Its microscopic size makes it challenging to cultivate and harvest on a large scale. Moreover, chlorella's tough, indigestible cellulose wall complicates its processing. The term "broken cell wall" is commonly associated with chlorella supplements for this reason.

This cell wall issue is why chlorella supplements tend to be priced slightly higher than those of spirulina. Breaking down the cell wall to make the nutrients available for human consumption is a complex and costly process. Therefore, the "broken cell wall" feature is something to look for on chlorella product labels.

Spirulina

As mentioned earlier, spirulina is notable not only for its unique shape but also because it is a multi-cell plant lacking a true nucleus.

Similar to chlorella, spirulina grows in fresh bodies of water with high alkalinity and requires moderate temperatures and abundant sunshine for mass production. The ease of harvesting these two types of microalgae varies significantly; spirulina grows solitarily in uncontaminated water, making its collection straightforward. In contrast, chlorella prefers crowded environments, complicating its harvesting process. Additionally, unlike chlorella, spirulina lacks a tough, indigestible cell wall, simplifying the production of supplements fit for human consumption.

Nutritionally, How Are Spirulina and Chlorella Different?

Both algae are labeled as "superfoods" and provide a substantial nutritional boost. They are among the richest, most nutritionally dense food sources on the planet, high in protein and key components of virtually every green superfood powder (whether in drink or tablet form). They are also among the purest sources of chlorophyll from nature, with chlorella being the superior source.

The distinction lies in the fact that while chlorella is celebrated for its chlorophyll content, a potent antioxidant that aids in liver detoxification and digestive tract toxin removal, spirulina offers more. This blue-green algae contains a unique antioxidant called phycocyanin, which shields cells from oxidative damage. Spirulina is also abundant in energizing B vitamins, vitamin E, and minerals such as copper, zinc, selenium, and iron. It even includes essential fatty acids, rounding out its extensive nutrient profile. Thus, most experts would likely declare spirulina the ultimate green superfood, but...

The encouraging news is that you don't have to choose just one. Many high-quality green superfood blends, powders, and pills combine both chlorella and spirulina, offering a comprehensive formula. Move beyond the idea that you're consuming seaweed and incorporate these potent algae into your diet.