Natural pigments production in algal bioreactors

The ever-increasing focus on sustainability and the pursuit of alternative sources of natural pigments has led to the development of innovative bioprocesses. Among these, algae bioreactors have emerged as a promising technology for the production of high-quality pigments, which find applications in various industries. The search for natural pigments has gained momentum as industries realize the shift toward healthier and sustainable lifestyles in society. The ability to obtain top-notch natural pigments, coupled with the reduction of environmental impact through microalgae, makes this approach a highly promising option to cater to the growing demand for disruptive solutions in the pigment industry. Given their attractive chemical composition, microalgae are significant players in various application areas related to human health. Hence, this chapter offers a comprehensive investigation of cultivation systems for pigment production using microalgae. The chapter presents the main factors that affect your productivity. Additionally, it discusses established pigments in the market, biosynthesis of β-carotene, astaxanthin, chlorophyll, and phycocyanin, along with the downstream challenges and prospects of these rich resources.