Spirulina is one of the most nutrient-dense superfoods on the planet — a blue-green microalgae packed with protein, iron, B vitamins, and essential fatty acids. Whether you're looking to boost your energy, support a plant-based diet, or simply want to know where to buy spirulina in the UK from a source you can trust, this guide covers everything you need to know.
🌀 What Is Spirulina — and Why Is It the Original Superfood?
Spirulina was one of the first superfoods we were introduced to back in the 80s, long before cacao, maca, reishi, goji berries, and all the other superfoods that are now part of our daily intake had crossed our paths. You could say Spirulina is the OG superfood!
There’s a good reason why it has remained popular for so many decades. With its dense nutrient profile, Spirulina is truly the food of the future.
Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae (technically a cyanobacterium) that grows in both fresh and saltwater. It has been consumed by humans for centuries — the Aztecs harvested it from Lake Texcoco, and it's still one of the most researched and recommended superfoods for plant-based diets today.
💪 What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Spirulina?
Spirulina is a genuine nutrient powerhouse. Here's what makes it stand out:
Complete protein: Spirulina is approximately 60–70% protein by dry weight — higher than beef — and contains all essential amino acids, making it an excellent plant-based protein source
Rich in B vitamins: Including B1, B2, and B3, which are essential for energy production and brain function
More iron than spinach: Making it a brilliant daily supplement for those on vegan or vegetarian diets who are prone to low iron
Omega-6 GLA (gamma-linolenic acid): A rare fatty acid that supports inflammation control and brain health
Antioxidants: Including phycocyanin, spirulina's unique blue pigment, which has been studied for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
Chlorophyll: Supports detoxification and gut health
In short, if you're looking for a single supplement that covers a wide range of nutritional bases — especially on a plant-based diet — spirulina is one of the best investments you can make.
🌍 Why Spirulina is the Future of Protein
Did you know that one cow provides enough protein (based on an average intake of 50g per day) for just three people annually? Even with intensive farming practices, each cow still requires 3 hectares of land (and 33 hectares if using regenerative farming!).
Now, compare that to plant-based protein sources:
• Soybeans: Just 0.169 hectares per person per year.
• Spirulina: An incredible 0.00869 hectares per person per year!
That means Spirulina can provide protein for 128 times more people than beef!
Just that statistic alone should be enough for every country to consider converting a portion of farmland to Spirulina farms.
Spirulina also requires minimal water (much of it is recycled in the growing process), no pesticides, and grows rapidly in warm, shallow water. As the global population grows and pressure on agricultural land increases, spirulina's role as a future protein source looks increasingly important.
Where Does Spirulina Come From?
China is the biggest Spirulina producer worldwide, but did you know that Spirulina from different countries has notably different tastes and textures? That’s why, in addition to our Raw Living Spirulina (from China), we also offer Auroville Spirulina from India, which has a gentler, nuttier taste, and new Bali Spirulina.
In China and Vietnam, spirulina farming has been integrated into the irrigation channels of rice paddy fields, thus creating greater food security and an extra source of income. It's even possible to set up a spirulina tank at home - all you need is an aquarium tank, a heater, good lighting, an air pump and alkaline water!
We look forward to the day when spirulina is a household staple, easily found wherever you travel in the world. But until that day, we have to rely on the pioneering companies growing high quality algae, like Bali Spirulina and Auroville in India.
🌴 Kate’s Visit to a Spirulina Farm in Bali
Our founder Kate recently visited a spirulina farm in Bali to see first-hand how it's produced — and what she found was a beautifully simple and sustainable process.
Every day, the workers use a giant sieve to remove the algae from outdoor growing ponds. The algae is then placed into a press to remove excess water — and that water is fed directly back to the plants, making the whole process remarkably low-waste.
What's left in the press is a dense, vivid green spirulina 'dough', which is either:
Sold fresh to local health food restaurants — a rare treat you're unlikely to find outside of Bali
Dried at low temperatures and pressed into Spirulina Crunchies — preserving the nutrients while creating a satisfying, snackable texture
One of the most fascinating details: to check if spirulina is ready to harvest, the farmers examine it under a microscope. The algae must be long and curly — spiralled — before it's suitable. If it's short or straight, it's not ready. So when you're eating spirulina, you're quite literally eating spirals. 🌀
You can see more photos and videos of Kate's Bali visit on her Instagram @katemagic.
🥗 How to Incorporate More Spirulina Into Your Diet
If Spirulina isn’t already part of your daily intake, we highly recommend finding ways to add it to your diet! Here are some easy options:
• Raw Living Spirulina Powder & Tablets – A convenient way to get your daily dose.
• Auroville Spirulina Crunchies – Perfect for sprinkling over salads.
• Greener Grass Green Powder Blend – A key ingredient for an extra nutrient boost.
- Sunseeds with Garlic & Spirulina - our addictive activated seed snack
- New in! Bali Spirulina Crunchies
Kate also features spirulina in several recipes in her books — including Broccoli Bonkers dip, Mermaid Soup, and Kids Lifesavers sweet treats. Perfect if you're looking for creative ways to incorporate spirulina into everyday cooking.
🛒 Ready to Try Spirulina?
Whether you're new to spirulina or a long-time fan, Raw Living has the right option for you. Browse our full range of green superfoods, or head straight to Kate's books for recipe inspiration. And if you have a favourite way to enjoy spirulina, we'd love to hear it — share your tips with us! 💚
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spirulina
Q: Is spirulina safe to take every day? A: Yes — for most people, spirulina is safe to take daily. A typical serving is 1–3g per day, though many people take more. As with any supplement, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a medical condition, it's worth checking with a health practitioner first.
Q: What does spirulina taste like? A: Spirulina has a strong, earthy, slightly sea-like flavour that some people love and others find challenging. If you're new to it, start with a small amount in a smoothie or try Bali Spirulina, which has a much gentler, nuttier taste.
Q: Is spirulina a good source of protein for vegans? A: Absolutely. Spirulina is approximately 60–70% protein by dry weight and contains all essential amino acids, making it one of the best plant-based complete protein sources available. It also provides iron and B vitamins that are commonly lacking in vegan diets.
Q: Where can I buy spirulina in the UK? A: You can buy spirulina in the UK directly from Raw Living. We stock Raw Living Spirulina (powder and tablets), Bali Spirulina, and Auroville Spirulina from India. All of our spirulina is sourced with quality and sustainability in mind.
Q: How long does spirulina take to work? A: Most people notice a difference in energy and general wellbeing within 2–4 weeks of taking spirulina consistently. Results vary depending on your current diet, lifestyle, and how much you take — but consistency is key.
Q: What's the difference between spirulina powder and tablets? A: Both deliver the same nutritional benefits. Spirulina powder is more versatile — ideal for smoothies and recipes — while spirulina tablets are more convenient for those who prefer to avoid the taste entirely. The choice is mostly down to personal preference.
