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Addis Ababa, June 28, 2024 (ADDISWARTA) Ethiopia has started producing spirulina, a nutrient-rich blue-green algae.
Spirulina is rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, carotenoids and antioxidants.
After three years of research, the Ethiopian Institute of Biology and Emerging Technologies launched its first microalgae research and production plant on June 20, 2024.
One kilogram of spirulina is worth 20,000 Ethiopian birr at current market prices.
Spirulina is in great demand in the global market, with one quintal of this nutritious algae worth 2 million birr.
The water bodies in the Ethiopian Rift Valley were found to be suitable for the growth of the microalga Spirulina.
According to Dr. Habite Jebessa, a researcher at the Institute of Biology and Emerging Technologies, this algae provides more than 90% of the nutrients needed by humans, including 60% of proteins, vitamins, fats, minerals and carbohydrates.
He added that unlike other products, spirulina does not take years or months to produce. Once it starts producing, it continues to produce every 24 hours.
Dr. Habit noted that starting spirulina production is important for sub-Saharan countries, which are generally affected by malnutrition, as it helps ensure food security.
The new production base covers an area of 1,200 square meters, with an investment of 8.2 million birr, and is expected to produce 30 kilograms of algae per month.
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