Table of Contents
What is organic phycocyanin powder?
Organic Phycocyanin Powder is a natural blue pigment extracted from certified organic Arthrospira platensis (spirulina) through a gentle water-based process. This bioactive compound delivers ≥20% phycocyanin content with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Free from synthetic solvents and additives, it serves as a vibrant colorant and functional ingredient for food, beverage, and cosmetic applications.
Specifications
| Parameter | Food Grade | Cosmetic Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Arthrospira platensis (organic) | Same |
| Phycocyanin Content | ≥20% (A620/A652) | ≥15% |
| Purity Ratio | A620/A280 ≥3.5 | A620/A280 ≥3.0 |
| Solubility | ≥95% (cold/hot water) | ≥98% (water/glycerin) |
| Color Value | E620 ≥200 | E620 ≥150 |
| pH Stability | 4.0–8.0 (blue) | 3.5–9.0 (blue-green) |
| Particle Size (D90) | ≤30µm | ≤20µm |
| Moisture | ≤6% | ≤5% |
| Heavy Metals | Pb<0.1ppm, Cd<0.05ppm | Pb<0.05ppm, Cd<0.02ppm |
| Microbiology | TPC<1,000 CFU/g | TPC<100 CFU/g |
Key Highlights
- Vibrant Color: Stable blue hue (pH 4–8) without synthetic dyes
- Antioxidant Power: ORAC ≥30,000 µmol TE/g (scavenges free radicals)
- Anti-Inflammatory: Inhibits COX-2 and TNF-α production
- Clean Process: Water-based extraction, no organic solvents
Key Features & Benefits
1. Natural Colorant
- pH Stability: Maintains blue color in acidic/neutral conditions (pH 4–8)
- Heat Resistance: Stable at pasteurization temperatures (≤85°C)
- Light Fastness: Resists fading under UV exposure (ΔE<2.0 after 500h)
2. Health Benefits
- Neuroprotection: Crosses BBB → reduces oxidative stress in neurons
- Liver Health: ↑ Glutathione synthesis (detox support)
- Immune Modulation: Enhances NK cell activity
3. Functional Performance
- Water Solubility: Instant dispersion in cold/hot systems
- Low Odor: Deodorized to remove algal notes
- Synergy: Compatible with other natural colorants (e.g., anthocyanins)
4. Safety & Compliance
- Non-GMO Project Verified: DNA-tested purity
- Allergen-Free: Gluten/soy/nut-free processing
- Vegan Certification: Certified by Vegan Action
Applications
| Industry | Food Grade Use Cases | Cosmetic Grade Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| Food & Beverage | Ice cream, yogurt, candies | Blue lip tints, eyeshadows |
| Functional Drinks | Antioxidant shots, sports drinks | Hydrating face mists |
| Supplements | Blue vitamin gummies, tablets | Anti-aging serums, masks |
| Confectionery | Cake decorations, frosting | Bath bombs, soaps |
| Dairy Alternatives | Plant-based blue cheese | Colorant for lotions |
| Pharmaceuticals | Tablet coatings, syrups | Wound healing creams |
Certifications & Quality Assurance
- Organic: USDA, EU Organic, JAS
- Non-GMO: Non-GMO Project Verified
- Safety:
- Heavy Metals: ICP-MS (Pb/Cd/As/Hg)
- Microcystins: <1μg/g (HPLC-MS)
- Solvents: Ethanol/hexane undetectable
- Performance Validation:
- Phycocyanin content (spectrophotometry A620/A652)
- Color stability (CIE Lab after heat/light stress)
Why Choose Us
Quality Preservation
- Low-T Extraction: <40°C protects protein structure
- Light-Protected Packaging: Amber bottles with oxygen scavengers
Sustainable Production
- Closed-Loop System: Spirulina biomass → animal feed
- Water Recycling: 90% process water reused
Technical Innovation
- Microencapsulation: Optional for enhanced light stability
- Custom Color Strength: 10–30% phycocyanin content
FAQs
Q: What is Phycocyanin, and how is it related to Spirulina?
A: Phycocyanin is a blue pigment-protein complex found exclusively in spirulina (Spirulina platensis) and some other blue-green algae. It is the active component responsible for Spirulina’s blue color and many of its acclaimed health benefits, making it a “super-antioxidant.”
Q: What makes Organic Phycocyanin Powder a “clean-label” colorant?
A: Our Organic Phycocyanin Powder is derived from naturally occurring organic spirulina through a water-based extraction process, without the use of artificial solvents, colors, or additives. This makes it a transparent and wholesome alternative to synthetic blue dyes.
Q: What’s the typical shelf life and recommended storage for bulk quantities?
A: Our Organic Phycocyanin Powder typically has a shelf life of 24 months from the manufacturing date when stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture, in its original sealed, airtight packaging.
Q: Does Organic Phycocyanin Powder have a “fishy” or “algae” taste?
A: No, unlike whole spirulina powder, Organic Phycocyanin Powder undergoes a purification process that removes the compounds responsible for the characteristic “fishy” or “algae” taste. It has a very mild, neutral flavor, making it highly adaptable for various formulations.
Q: Is Organic Phycocyanin Powder heat stable for baking or hot beverages?
A: Phycocyanin can be sensitive to prolonged exposure to high heat and extreme pH values (highly acidic or alkaline environments), which can cause degradation of color and potentially activity. For best results in heat applications, we recommend adding it after cooking or at lower temperatures. It performs best in neutral pH conditions.
Packing
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