We're loving this new blue spirulina. A wonderfully bright and vibrant addition to any smoothie, baked good or beverage it can also be used as a natural food colouring but packed with nutrients and antioxidants.

The term "phycocyanin" is derived from the Greek words phyco (algae) and cyanin (blue-green). It is a natural blue pigment extracted from specific species of blue-green algae.

Not only a striking vibrant blue colour, phycocyanin is the primary active compound in blue spirulina and is a powerful antioxidant which helps protect cells against oxidative stress. It also has anti-inflammatory effects, potentially reducing inflammation in the body. 

The main difference between blue and green spirulina is their pigment composition. Blue spirulina derives its intense blue colour from the phycocyanin pigment, which is a blue pigment with antioxidant properties. Green spirulina gets its green colour from a combination of chlorophyll (green pigment) and other pigments.

Blue spirulina has a more neutral flavour than regular spirulina (no fishy tastes!), which makes it a perfect healthy and natural alternative to artificial food colouring and additives.