Food supplements containing spirulina: the importance of choosing trustworthy supply channels | Anses - Agence nationale de sécurité sanitaire de l’alimentation, de l’environnement et du travail

Under the national nutrivigilance scheme, reports of adverse effects likely to be associated with the consumption of food supplements containing spirulina have been brought to the attention of ANSES. These reports led ANSES to assess the risks associated with the consumption of this type of food supplement. In the opinion it is publishing today, the Agency emphasises that products containing spirulina can be contaminated by cyanotoxins, bacteria or trace metal elements. In this context, the Agency recommends that consumers should choose trustworthy supply channels. Apart from the risk of contamination, spirulina does not seem to present a health risk at low doses. However, in light of the characteristics of spirulina and the adverse effects reported, ANSES advises against the consumption of these food supplements by individuals suffering from phenylketonuria or with an allergic predisposition. Lastly, the Agency does not consider spirulina to be a reliable source of vitamin B12 for vegan populations.

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