Production of Bio-Sustainable Protein from Algae Using Biochemical Approaches: A Green Alternative to Conventional Protein Sources

Biotechnology | Research article | https://doi.org/10.47262/SL/14.1.132026160

Ejlal Haider 1, Ahmed Yar 2*, Muhammad Uzair 3, Sana Zahoor 2, Khurram Shazad Qureshi 2, Muhammad Ali 4

1 School of Natural Sciences, University of Chester, England

2 Department of Chemical Engineering, Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Islamabad, Pakistan

3 Department of Biological Sciences, Virtual University of Pakistan, Islamabad Campus, Pakistan

4 Department of Physics and Applied Mathematics, Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Islamabad, Pakistan

Abstract

The escalating global demand for sustainable protein sources necessitates the exploration of alternative biomass resources. This study investigates the potential of microalgae, specifically Chlorella species, as a renewable source for protein production using biochemical extraction methods. Indigenous algal strains were isolated and cultivated under controlled laboratory conditions to optimize biomass yield and protein content. The research employed a combination of spectrophotometric assays, microscopy, and biochemical extraction techniques to characterize and quantify protein levels throughout the growth cycle. Key parameters, including pH, light intensity, temperature, and nutrient availability, were systematically optimized to enhance productivity. The growth dynamics of Chlorella spp. were monitored over 20 days, revealing distinct lag, exponential, stationary, and decline phases. Protein extraction was performed using alkaline lysis with 0.5 N NaOH, followed by heat treatment at 80°C. The investigation demonstrated that an optimal protein yield of 3.03 mg/mL was achieved at pH 6 with 2.0 g/L sodium bicarbonate supplementation. The results indicate that microalgae can produce substantial quantities of high-quality protein with minimal environmental impact, requiring significantly less land and water resources compared to conventional animal and plant-based protein sources. This work establishes algae-derived protein as a viable, eco-friendly alternative supporting the advancement of sustainable food systems and environmental biotechnology.