ABSTRACT

Currently, algal-based bioactive compounds such as lipids, proteins, carbohydrates, carotenoids, vitamins and minerals are increasingly being used worldwide. Photobioreactor and open-pond methods have been used to platform molecules in microalgae production for feedstock. Conventionally they are extracted using organic solvents from microalgae which have many limitations and drawbacks related to human health and environment. Due to low yield and less selectivity of bioactive compounds from conventional methods, greener and more efficient technology is required to extract these compounds. Therefore, green processes such as supercritical fluid extraction, pressurized fluid extraction, microwave-assisted extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction and enzyme-assisted extraction are used as alternative methods for separating these molecules. Products extracted using green methods are regarded as safe by the United States Food and Drug Administration. This chapter highlights different techniques for extraction of high-value products from microalgae, which have co mmercial and industrial applications in the nutraceutical, cosmeceutical and pharmaceutical industries. It is reported that these compounds have antimicrobial, antifungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancerous properties, and can be used to treat life-threatening diseases. Therefore, the extraction techniques mentioned here are the most promising approach to extracting biologically active compounds from microalgae in the future.