EUBCE 2026 - Mingyan LIU - Low-Cost Spirulina Subsalsa Biomass Cultivation And Assessment of Feed Potential: Using Brine and Wastewater

Low-Cost Spirulina Subsalsa Biomass Cultivation And Assessment of Feed Potential: Using Brine and Wastewater

Short Introductive summary

Microalgal commercialization production faces challenges of high costs and substantial freshwater consumption. Brine, as a potential alternative to freshwater, along with wastewater, offers an economically viable cultivation approach. However, no prior studies have reported brine-based medium for Spirulina subsalsa cultivation. This study explored the feasibility of culturing Spirulina subsalsa in brine supplemented with monosodium glutamate wastewater and evaluated the potential of its biomass as a feed ingredient. The optimal conditions were identified as a 50% dilution of brine with wastewater added at a 1:2000 ratio. The primary metabolite was protein, followed by carbohydrate. Its Essential Amino Acid Index (EAAI) exceeding 0.95 indicated high-quality protein. The produced Spirulina subsalsa powder met national standards (Feed Grade Spirulina Powder, GB/T 17243—1998) for physicochemical properties, heavy metals, and microbiological safety, demonstrating its potential for feed applications. This research lays a foundation for low-cost, large-scale cultivation of Spirulina subsalsa and facilitates subsequent biomass utilization.

M. Liu, Shandong University, Qingdao, P.R. CHINA
Y. He, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. CHINA
M. Zhang, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. CHINA
Q. Sun, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. CHINA
H. Pei, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. CHINA