Red and green macroalgae for fish and animal feed and human functional food development

Cereal and plant proteins are used frequently in the manufacture of animal, fish, and human food products but are often deficient in essential amino acids. In contrast, macroalgal proteins contain all the essential amino acids and are a rich source of other bioactives, including taurine, lipids, carotenoids, and pigments. Furthermore, macroalgal proteins are a substrate for bioactive peptides generation. This paper discusses macroalgal bioactives and their potential use in fish, animal, and human nutrition and health. Issues including their safe use, sustainability of supply, efficient drying and processing methods, and novel extraction technologies are discussed, as well as legislation issues.Department of Agriculture, Food and the MarineFundación Pedro Barrié de la MazaIrish Marine Institut