Spirulina Extract (Blue Color)

Last reviewed October 19, 2026

In plain words: Spirulina extract is a blue water extract of the cyanobacterium (blue-green alga) Arthrospira platensis. Its blue pigment is phycocyanin.

What the evidence review says

Spirulina extract is a blue color from blue-green algae (spirulina). We found no notable concern for listed food uses when it meets FDA specifications. The control issue is microcystin, a substance from some other algae that can harm the liver, so US rules require the extract to test negative for it and limit lead, arsenic and mercury.

No notable concern for the listed food uses when the extract meets FDA specifications. The real control issue is microcystin, a substance made by some other cyanobacteria that can harm the liver and can contaminate the growing water. US color regulation requires the extract to test negative for microcystin and sets limits for lead, arsenic, and mercury. FDA's safety finding is for those specified extracts, not for untested pond spirulina.

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This page is for general education. It is not medical advice and does not replace advice from your doctor, pediatrician, allergist or registered dietitian. Research changes; we review these pages when new evidence or rules come out. Last reviewed October 19, 2026.