The food-tech company Brevel has announced the launch of Purallis, a clean-label chlorella for nutraceuticals that is cultivated in a closed system indoors.
The company can now produce standardised chlorella using its proprietary illuminated fermentation biomanufacturing platform, enabling high yields and addressing some of the challenges in sourcing chlorella that meets consumers' expectations for purity and standardisation.
Why this matters
Chlorella is traditionally cultivated in freshwater ponds and requires sunlight to produce its nutrients and vibrant green colour.
Approximately 90% of the world's chlorella supply is sourced from these ponds, while the remainder is produced in closed fermentation systems, primarily in Europe.
Chlorella is known for its ability to accumulate pollutants and heavy metals from the surrounding water and air.
Therefore, its cultivation must occur in clean, controlled environments, accompanied by routine testing for heavy metals, pesticides and microbial contaminants to ensure product safety and quality.
"The strict requirements for purity, consistency and safety have tended to strain the supply of this ingredient," explains Yonatan Golan, co-founder and CEO of Brevel.
"Our illuminated fermentation platform is instrumental in helping ease the strain on the supply of ultra-pure, highly nutritious chlorella in a consistent manner."
Brevel pioneered proprietary technology that combines light with fermentation in a closed, sterile system.
This innovative platform enables the production of high-quality chlorella microalgae in generous quantities. Fermentation, traditionally limited to dark environments, is responsible for producing microalgae at very high yields.
Brevel is the first company to unite the two processes and bring fermentation out of the dark.
The company adapted its platform to grow chlorella in response to flourishing market demands for this popular nutritional source and the realisation of its potential as a cornerstone ingredient in the future of food, wellness and cosmeceuticals.
"Our clean-label Purallis chlorella is cultivated in fully controlled, sterile bioreactors, eliminating any risk of contaminants or heavy metals," added Yfah Burstin, Chief Business Officer for Brevel.
Thanks to the integrated light, it delivers premium chlorella that is exceptionally rich in complete protein, antioxidants and chlorophyll.
"Moreover, the concentrated light extends nutrient density and functionality, while delivering a very mild flavour. For example, it can adjust iron levels for optimised formulations."
Overcoming the cell wall challenge
Chlorella has a thick, rigid cell wall composed of complex polysaccharides (cellulose and sporopollenin).
This wall is indigestible, so Brevel uses a bead mill to physically break the algae cells open and release their contents into the liquid matrix in a simple, mechanical way.
The process omits the need for harsh chemicals or high temperatures.
Chlorella on a wave of demand
The global chlorella market is experiencing strong momentum, largely propelled by a global shift toward natural, plant-based and sustainable health products.
Currently valued at approximately $328m, projections indicate it could reach $486m by the early 2030s.
Recent scientific research points to renewed interest in the green microalgae owing to its extensive biochemical makeup, which has been linked to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, detoxifying and nutritive capabilities, as well as a supportive role in metabolic function.
Chlorella (Chlorella vulgaris) is a renowned superfood carrying an impressive nutritional profile. It is composed of 50% protein and boasts the complete spectrum of amino acids, as well as naturally occurring vitamins (notably B vitamins), omega-3 fatty acids, essential minerals and fibre.
It is uniquely rich in iron and contains beneficial bioactive compounds, including carotenoids, chlorophyll and polyphenols—key compounds that protect against oxidative stress and support body detoxification.
"Chlorella is a highly versatile and sustainable ingredient with relevance to various wellness categories," said Burstin.
Recent research revealed that in some individuals, chlorella can function as a 'precision prebiotic' that helps correct specific microbial imbalances through powerful polysaccharide compounds, supporting beneficial bacteria that keep the gut lining healthy.
"It also could serve as a strategic nutritional tool for filling protein and nutrient gaps in GLP-1 and other reduced-calorie diets, where users must be sure they are getting more from every bite they consume. We call it GLP-1 friendly food."
Brevel Purallis is readily incorporated into functional foods and beverages as a nutraceutical-packed supplement and viable protein alternative. It is also an ideal plant-based solution for supplements formulated to address needs in active lifestyles and sports nutrition, metabolic and general wellness, healthy ageing and longevity.
"Our Industrial-scale operations ensure year-round availability of standardised, high-value chlorella, delivering a reliable supply and meeting demand at any volume, from pilot to global commercial quantities," said Golan.
Brevel Purallis is produced in facilities operated under internationally recognised standards, including HACCP and FSSC 22000 and is certified kosher, halal and non-GMO.