Extraction of astaxanthin “Haematococcus pluvialis” from green algae

Abstract

Astaxanthin is a secondary carotenoid that is widely used as a dietary supplement and feed in aquaculture industries.Among other commercially significant microalgae, Haematococcus pluvialis is considered as the best non-genetically modified microalgae for accumulation of natural astaxanthin.Natural astaxanthin
extracted from H. pluvialis has a significantly better antioxidant potential than artificially manufactured astaxanthin. Astaxanthin promotes the health conditions of humans by reducing oxidative stress and free radicals. Natural astaxanthin is recognized as one of the high-value-added products of the future, with noticeable advantages and a great growth in demand.

The present chapter describes the mass cultivation of H. pluvialis for high-end production of natural astaxanthin. Cultivation of H. pluvialis in photobioreactors and open raceway ponds via two-stage and one-stage methodologies are summarized in detail. Production processes including harvesting, cell rupturing, downstream processing, and biorefinery models were reviewed. Total cost and profit involved in the mass production of H. pluvialis were elaborated by lab-scale production, small-scale production, and large-scale production in detail. Thus, the chapter can serve as a baseline for entrepreneurship opportunities in the commercial production of astaxanthin from Haematococcus pluvialis.